Service, fees, and how buying from out of state works

What does full service actually include?

For buyers, Brett does the work start to finish:

• Researches listings, price history, and comparable sales so you know what a property is worth before you offer
• Previews homes for you and runs live video walkthroughs when you can't be there
• Writes and negotiates the offer, including inspection, appraisal, water, and financing terms
• Lines up inspectors, well and septic testing, surveyors, and lenders who work in Southwest Colorado
• Reviews title, covenants, HOA documents, and water rights paperwork with you and flags what needs an attorney
• Manages every deadline through closing and stays your contact after

What does full service include when I'm selling?

Pricing based on recent comparable sales, prep advice, photography and marketing, showings, negotiating offers and repair requests, and managing the contract through closing. Ranch and acreage sellers also get help assembling water rights, well, and survey documents buyers will ask for.

How does commission work? Is the rate negotiable?

Yes. Commission is not set by law or by any association, and it is always negotiable.

Sellers agree to a listing fee in a written listing agreement. Since August 2024, buyers also sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes, and that agreement states exactly how much the buyer's agent is paid and by whom. Some sellers still offer to cover the buyer's agent fee, some don't, and it can be negotiated as part of your offer.

Brett's rate is set in your written agreement before any work starts, so you know the number up front.

What does working with a low-volume agent mean in practice?

Brett is not a volume agent. He works with a small number of clients at a time, so you talk to him directly, not a rotating team. He does his own research and tells you plainly when a property or a price doesn't make sense.

Can I buy a home or ranch here from out of state?

Yes, and most of Brett's second-home buyers do. You set the search criteria on a call, Brett previews properties and sends notes and video, and you tour the finalists live on video. Inspections, well and septic tests, and appraisals are scheduled for you and the reports are sent to you to review.

Documents are signed electronically. Most buyers can close remotely, depending on the title company and lender. Many buyers make one trip once there's a short list worth seeing in person.

Which brokerage is Brett with?

Brett is a colorado real estate broker and a Partner at Colorado Home Network. Rocky Mountain Home and Ranch is his practice, based at 700 Main Ave in Durango. Listings on this site come from the local MLS through the property search page.