A contrite, polite Joe Homeowner recognizes that not all housing markets operate the same way, and that he has a lot to learn.

Blanche,

I just read your article about our Grassroots Organization. Although we may never agree on many things concerning commissions, I want you to know I respect your decision to post my message. Now I understand that may not mean much coming from someone who remains anonymous. (I have my reasons for doing so.)

I live in an area where the average home prices are in the upper $900k's. I think the national average home prices is about $225K. It will cost me $54K to sell my home where other parts of the country only pay $13.5K. Are those Realtors not working as hard in other parts of the country? I understand cost of living is different. But as home prices continue to go up, the commission percentage should start to go down. As I mentioned in my document, every Realtor I talked to said the price would be 6 percent. They said I could lower the buying agent percent but they wouldn't recommend it. If I use a discount broker, I just can't help but to think that my listing will be blacklisted by the full commission Realtors. Yes it is frustrating.

I do enjoying reading your articles and always keep an open mind. I am not affiliated with any business in the Real Estate industry. I will agree that I have a lot to learn. I can only speak as a homeowner and I like to know what I am paying for. Have a great weekend, Joe

Ohio Realtor Elaine Marie writes, "I would hope this letter is brought to Joe's attention and I am proud to give him my name.

I am always happy to hear what the public needs and views are, so I can improve on being the best professional realtor. I strongly believe in doing the right thing, period! That means disclosure and informing the public, and be fair to all parties involved.

Initially I was thrilled to read the letter from Joe the homeowner. Joe is incorrect about many issues. He seems to loathe any realtors and is definitely misinformed!

More than halfway into the letter, I decided that someone needs to remind Joe that we, the realtors, are also getting paid for the people who use our service without pay! Unfortunately, some people use our free services by misleading us into a possible listing or sale, when they just want our profession opinion on the house value and marketing, so they can sell by owner. I have had buyers who want to look at a house, out of their price range, just to see it ... or for kicks ... .

The public needs to interview agents and take the time to know who and what they are getting into. The misinformed public who accepts "the pie in the sky" talk they want to hear from bad agents instead of the straight talk, deserve to have a lousy experience. I resent the people who allow other people without integrity to service them and then blame everyone else for their negative experience!

I think Joe should work as a Realtor for a week, in a city that is losing population daily where I live. Sincerely, Elaine."