In Episode 12 of The Fitze Is Right, Maryland realtor Jen Fitze answers every question you've been too afraid to ask your agent — the money questions, the awkward questions, the ones most agents dodge.

How much money do you actually need to buy your first home? Spoiler: it's not 20% down. That's a myth. But closing costs on top of the down payment can add $8,000 to $15,000 that nobody warns first-time buyers about until it's too late.

What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved? One means almost nothing. The other means you're actually ready to buy. Most buyers don't know the difference and it costs them houses.

What does Jen know about the house she's selling that she legally doesn't have to tell the buyer? She answers honestly — and the answer might keep you up at night.

What's the shadiest thing she's ever seen another agent do? She gives the specific story. No vague answers. No protecting anyone.

Can you fire your agent? Yes. And most people have no idea they're allowed to. Jen explains exactly how, when, and what happens to their commission.

Is dual agency bad? One agent representing both the buyer and seller means nobody is truly fighting for either side. They can't negotiate, can't advise, can't help — but they keep both commissions. Jen doesn't hold back.

And the big one: Are realtors overpaid? Jen has 173 things on her checklist for every transaction. Her hourly rate breaks down to about $40 an hour. She fronts all costs out of pocket. She doesn't get paid until settlement — and if the deal falls through, she gets nothing. She has thoughts.

Plus: what happens when a couple disagrees about a house, the biggest lie a seller has ever told Jen, what happens when your appraisal comes in low, whether it's smarter to buy or rent, and a rapid fire speed round that includes the question every agent dreads: "What's the most you've ever made on one deal?"

In this episode you'll learn: → The actual dollar amount you need to buy your first home → Why pre-qualified means almost nothing → What your agent knows about your house but doesn't have to tell you → How to fire your agent and what happens to their commission → Why dual agency means nobody is fighting for you → Whether realtors are actually overpaid — the honest math → The shadiest thing Jen has ever seen another agent do

New episodes weekly. Follow Jen Fitze on social media for daily real estate tips.

Thanks for listening to The Fitze Is Right with Jen Fitze... the real estate podcast that tells you what your agent won't.

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Got a real estate horror story of your own? We want to hear it. Send your story to @jenniferfitzecompassrealestate and Jen might read and react to it live on a future episode.

CONNECT WITH JEN: All socials @jenniferfitzecompassrealestate

WORK WITH JEN: Buying or selling a home in Maryland? Jen has over 20 years of experience helping families in Harford County, Baltimore County, and beyond. Reach out at jensellsmd@gmail.com