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Joe Hawkins | Hawkins Real Estate Company

FAQs

Frequently asked questions -
Hawkins Real Estate Company, LLC
(Joe Hawkins)

1.  What makes you different from other brokerages? 
I offer full‑service representation, FLAT FEE (limited services) support, and Landlord Rental support (renting and property management) all for a transparent low price. 
  • 1% listing fee for full service, plus a $500 administrative fee. 
  • $295 for FLAT FEE MLS – other charges apply if you are upgrading a service – see my pricing sheet!
  • 50% of first month’s rent fee for renting your home (no fee if you find the tenant)
  • $150 a month to manage your property   
My services are backed by nearly 25 years of local and multi‑state experience. 
My clients receive expert negotiation, premium marketing, and compliance‑driven oversight without inflated commissions.  
Please do keep in mind, these fees are only if you use Joe Hawkins as your Realtor (that’s me!) 
My other Agents (working under me) are free to charge what they like for their services!

2.  Is your 1% listing fee really full service?

Yes. Full Service listings includes professional photography, MLS syndication, showing coordination, negotiation, disclosures, , lockboxes, signs, and full contract management — the same services traditional brokerages provide, without the traditional price tag.  Since me fees are so low, I do charge a $500 Administrative Fee to cover all the extra expenses of photography, sign posts, lockboxes, etc.  Keep in mind most Brokerages not only charge 2.5% or 3% on the listing side but also will charge you close to $1000 or more in their administrative fees!   Redfin charges extra as well! This fee can be negotiated if no professional photography is needed!  
3. Are there any hidden fees? 
No.  The only additional cost you will need to consider is the buyer‑agent commission. It is still customary for the Sellers to pay all commissions!  
(Typically Buyer Agents ask between 2–2.5%).  Ultimately it is up to you what you want to write down on our agreements.  Many of my clients write 0% and end up negotiating come offer time. 
Please keep in mind that commissions are no longer allowed on the MLS! 
The only way for Buyer Agents to know what you agree to pay them is if they ask me or you directly!  
I do not post commission on my website!
4.  How does your FLAT FEE MLS model work?
Flat Fee MLS, is simply that, for a flat fee I will put your home on the MLS.  
The upfront fee is $295.  I have two service upgrades.  Back end virtual only support for $500 or a more full virtual support for $700. (paid at closing).  See my FLAT FEE PAGE for all the details!  
Why FLAT FEE MLS?  One, you save a ton of money!  Two, your property will now be advertised on every major real estate website out there!  Redfin, Trulia, Re/Max, Compass, EXP, REALTOR, and many more! Any Realtors working with Buyers will now be able to see your listing, schedule showings, and submit offers directly to you!  The bottom line is you want your property sold and using only Zillow severely limits your ability to sell your home on the open market.  
Keep in mind this FLAT FEE MLS model is a limited support only and designed for FSBO!  You represent yourself!  You’ll supply all the photos, listing details, etc.  I have all the paperwork to assist you in and the process is rather easy.  I can have your listing up and running in less than an hour many times.  
If you are unsure of the real estate process (never sold before, or it’s been years, don’t know the process), please upgrade the service to either back office support of full virtual support!   My upgrades are very affordable and you’ll get the support you need, plus potentially saving thousands of dollars with my help negotiating any offers.  
If you order only MLS Basic Support, I only assist MLS Listing changes only.  (photos, remarks, open houses, etc)  
    
5.  How can you help me with my renting my property or property management? 
My fee for renting your home is 50% of first month’s rent.  Property Management is $150.  There will be no fees if you find the tenant before me!!!  I take quality pictures (not professional), and the only agent in the entire area who will do a 360 Matterport style tour for my rental listings.  I market socially, the MLS, my website, and many other areas.  My property management style is more backend support related.  You’ll retain the deposits, the rent will go directly to you.  I will be there to handle all tenant interactions, such as arrange for repairs, handle any rental collection issues, HOA issues, etc.  I will be the middle man between you and the tenants!  Taking all the pressures away from you! 
6. Which states are you licensed in?
I am licensed and actively operating in Maryland, DC, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina, and more to follow, providing seamless support for clients who move or invest across state lines.  I only offer Full Service support in the area local to me.  Currently the DC METRO area, inquire within!  I do network with other Realtors, so if you need a referral, please let me know! 

7. Do you help with pricing strategy? 
Absolutely. You receive a data‑driven pricing analysis that evaluates comparable sales, active competition, absorption rates, and market velocity to position your home for a fast, high‑value sale.

8. How often will I receive updates? 
Sellers receives instant updates when feedback is received.  I also provide periodic feedback and updates including showing feedback, online traffic analytics, competitive changes, and strategic recommendations. You’re always informed and never left guessing.  Any time you have any questions, I am a phone call away as well! 

9. Do you work with investors or multi‑state clients?
Yes. With multi‑state licensing and deep experience in compliance, zoning, and cross‑border transactions, I am uniquely equipped to support investors, relocators, and clients managing properties in multiple states.  My Flat Fee Model is perfect for investors who have experience selling properties! 
10. Can you help me buy a home as well? 
Yes. Buyers receive full‑service representation, negotiation support, contract guidance, and market analysis — all delivered with the same high‑integrity, data‑driven approach.  All my Buyer clients get up to a $5,000 buyer rebate from me at closing, just as a thank you for using my services and NO ADMIN FEES!!!   Again, you must use Joe Hawkins to get these rebates!  Any of my Agents under me are not obligated to offer Buyer discounts!