Frequently Asked
Questions
How do I
receive my buyer's cash back rebate?
You receive your cash rebate at closing. The cash back rebate is paid
directly to you, the buyer(s) of the property. In all cases, you
may choose to have the money applied as a credit towards your
closing costs, your pre-paid expenses, and/or your down payment.
Your buyer's cash back rebate will be shown in the closing settlement
sheets and on the HUD-1 documents. If you're using VA/FHA
financing, the rebate must be applied in this way. If you're
using conventional financing, consult with your lender. You may
be permitted to receive the cash back rebate in cash.
Is the buyer's
cash back rebate taxable income?
No, the rebate is simply a reduction on your taxable basis in
the property you buy. There's no Form-1099 because the rebate is
not income. It's the same as a rebate when you buy a car, or a
cell phone, or a rebate you receive back on your credit card
purchases.
Where does the
buyer's cash back rebate money come from?
Your cash back rebate comes directly from the "co-op" commission we receive from
the listing agent, seller, or builder. The money itself starts
with your money or the money you borrow to
purchase your home. You pay the seller, the seller pays the
listing agent, the listing agent pays the "co-op" commission to
me, the buyer's agent, and I refund some of your money back to
you. That's why this is a rebate -- its a refund back to you!
Do I have to
use a certain lender in order to get the buyer's cash back rebate?
Of course not! Please use the lender of your choice. And we
encourage you to shop and compare programs and rates. Get
several Good Faith Estimates -- in writing!
Can I make an
offer to buy a home contingent upon the sale of my existing home
and get the buyer's cash back rebate?
If your existing home is already under contract to close in the
near future, yes, in most cases.
Can I use any
real estate agent and still get the buyer's cash back rebate?
No, you receive our buyer's cash back rebate only when we represent you as
your Realtor®.
Can I get the
buyer's cash back rebate if I buy a brand new home, even one built from
the ground up?
Yes, but please be absolutely sure to have us accompany your
first visit to model homes so that we may sign up as your
Realtor®.
Another agent
showed me the home I want to buy. Can I buy it through you to
get the buyer's cash back rebate?
No, this is not possible.
Can I get the
buyer's cash back rebate on a FSBO (For Sale by Owner)?
And, can I get the rebate on a foreclosed property?
FSBO's are ineligible. Some foreclosures are eligible, but not
properties which require bidding.
Can I get the
buyer's cash back rebate on homes I saw advertised elsewhere, or ones that
I saw driving by?
Yes, be sure to ask us to set up the showing(s) so that we can
represent you as your Realtor®.
Should I get a
lender's pre-qualification letter before looking at properties?
Yes, before requesting showings, please talk with a lender to
get pre-qualified. You'll need a lender’s pre-qualification
letter to present with your offer, so its in your best interests
to be prepared! Plus, its a good idea to know in advance how
much mortgage you qualify for, and what the monthly payments
will be including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.
|