1. What makes you different from other brokerages?

I offer full-service representation, flat-fee (limited service) options, and landlord rental/property management support—all at a transparent, competitive price.

• 1% listing fee for full-service representation, plus a $500 administrative fee
• $295 Flat Fee MLS (additional charges apply for service upgrades—see pricing sheet)
• 50% of the first month’s rent to lease your property (no fee if you find the tenant)
• $150/month for property management

My services are backed by nearly 25 years of local and multi-state experience. Clients receive expert negotiation, premium marketing, and compliance-driven oversight—without inflated commissions.

Please note: these fees apply when you work directly with me, Joe Hawkins. Agents working under my brokerage may set their own pricing.

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

Yes. My full-service listings include:

• Professional photography
• MLS syndication
• Showing coordination
• Contract negotiation
• Disclosures
• Lockboxes and signage
• Full contract management

These are the same services traditional brokerages provide—just without the traditional price tag.

I do charge a $500 administrative fee to cover costs such as photography, signposts, and lockboxes. Many brokerages charge 2.5%–3% on the listing side plus $1,000+ in administrative fees, making my pricing significantly more competitive.

3. Are there any hidden fees?

No—there are no hidden fees.

The only additional cost to consider is the buyer-agent commission, which is still commonly paid by the seller.

• Typical buyer-agent commission: 2%–2.5%
• You ultimately decide what, if anything, to offer

While some sellers initially offer 0%, many choose to negotiate a commission during the offer process.

Note: Buyer-agent commissions are no longer displayed on the MLS. Agents must request this information directly.

4. How does your Flat Fee MLS model work?

The Flat Fee MLS option allows you to list your home on the MLS for a one-time fee of $295.

Available upgrades:

• Back-end (virtual) support: $750 (paid at closing)
• Full virtual support: $1,000 (paid at closing)

Why choose Flat Fee MLS?

• Save thousands in commission
• Gain exposure across MLS + major real estate platforms (Redfin, Trulia, REALTOR®, etc.)
• Reach more buyers and agents than listing on a single platform like Zillow

Important details:

• Designed for FSBO (For Sale By Owner) sellers
• You represent yourself and provide photos, descriptions, and details
• I handle the MLS listing and provide necessary paperwork

Tips for success:

• Use high-quality photos (consider professional photography for higher-end homes)
• Price your home correctly
• Make your home easily available for showings
• Consider using ShowingTime (widely used by agents)

If you’re unfamiliar with the selling process, I strongly recommend upgrading for additional support. These options provide guidance and can still save you significant money.

Basic MLS service includes listing management only (photos, remarks, updates). It does not include negotiation or contract assistance.

5. How can you help with renting or property management?

Rental Services:

• Fee: 50% of one month’s rent
• No charge if you find the tenant yourself

I provide:

• Quality listing photos
• A 360° Matterport-style tour (unique in the area)
• Marketing across MLS, social platforms, and my website

Property Management:

• $150/month
• Focused on backend support, including:
  • Tenant communication
  • Repair coordination
  • Rent collection issues
  • HOA coordination

You retain control of:

• Rent collection
• Security deposits

I act as the middleman, reducing stress and handling day-to-day tenant interactions.

6. Which states are you licensed in?

I am licensed in:

Maryland, DC, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, and Maine

I currently provide full-service support in the DC Metro area. For other locations, I can provide referrals through my agent network.

7. Do you help with pricing strategy?

Absolutely.

With upgraded plans, I provide a data-driven pricing analysis, including:

• Comparable sales
• Active competition
• Absorption rates
• Market trends and velocity

This ensures your home is positioned for a fast and profitable sale.

8. How often will I receive updates?

You’ll receive:

• Instant updates when showing feedback is submitted
• Ongoing reports on:
  • Buyer activity
  • Online traffic
  • Market changes
  • Strategy recommendations

You’ll always be informed—and I’m just a phone call away whenever you need me.

9. Do you work with investors or multi-state clients?

Yes.

My multi-state licensing and experience in compliance, zoning, and cross-border transactions make me well-suited to assist:

• Real estate investors
• Relocating clients
• Multi-property owners

The Flat Fee model is especially beneficial for experienced investors.

10. Can you help me buy a home as well?

Yes—buyers receive full-service representation, including:

• Negotiation support
• Contract guidance
• Market analysis

Buyer benefit:

• Up to $5,000 rebate at closing
• No administrative fees