By MARCIE GEFFNER Special to The Times

Why is it that some home sellers absolutely love the same agent other sellers have erased permanently from their address books?

The difference isn't necessarily just the agent. More than likely, the

sellers' own behaviors and attitudes were part of the equation.

Getting great service from a real estate agent isn't just a matter of

luck. On the contrary, sellers who know how the business works

and how they can motivate their agents to achieve peak performance have a

definite edge.



Here are some tips from realty pros on getting top-notch service from your agent:





1. Understand the importance of commissions.


Real estate agents are salespeople, and that means they naturally

devote most of their effort and resources to homes on the market that

present the best opportunity for a full commission.

Although a 6% commission often is cited as standard in the industry,

commissions are negotiable. Many agents accept 5% and others are willing

to work on a sliding scale (i.e., the agents earn more if the home sells

for a higher price).

Agents say a 5% commission isn't necessarily a disincentive, but 6% is

definitely a stronger motivation. Below 5%, motivation, marketing and

client service tend to diminish markedly.

Even if the listing agent agrees to accept a lower commission, some