I am not as averse as sdr to flat fee guys. Some are good. Others charge less because they do not get many referrals. I used to work as an office manager for a flat fee helpusell. I went elsewhere when it became clear that our new broker was scaring away the clientele (which damages the licensees’ names as well). In other words, our office switched from one with lots of referral business to one totally dependent on discounted commissions.
I think its fair to ask any agent for 3 referrals and contact info.
