Consumer Tips, Tools and Resources

Our mission as a division of the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies is to serve the public through regulation and enforcement of Colorado Law. The Division of Real Estate is the licensing, regulation and enforcement agency for the real estate brokerage, appraisal and mortgage broker industries.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Rental Scams on Craigslist Persist

• Signing documents that are incomplete or back dated.

• Upfront fees.

• Unwillingness to provide a receipt when money is transferred that clearly states the purpose of payment and who will be holding payment.

• Verbal only agreements or any agreement not documented in writing.

• Unlicensed individuals. Check our publicly searchable database to ensure your mortgage loan originator, real estate broker and/or appraiser are properly licensed and in good standing.

What is Title

The Title Fact Sheet provides information on title and title insurance for prospective property buyers and sellers.

Title Fact Sheet

How to Choose a Real Estate Broker

Choosing a real estate broker is a key element in a successful real estate transaction. The largest single financial transaction that a family makes is often the purchase or sale of the family home. The importance of that real estate transaction cannot be minimized. The assistance of a competent real estate broker can go a long way towards making this most significant purchase a smooth and happy one. Deciding how to proceed when you decide to buy or sell real property should be a result of careful consideration.

Brokerage Relationships

A working relationship, between a licensed real estate broker and a buyer or seller, to engage the services of the licensed broker on behalf of the buyer of seller in acquiring or marketing real property. This relationship may be limited agency or non-agency according to the agreement of the parties. In the absence of a signed agreement regarding the brokerage relationship, the default position under Colorado License Law is "transaction-brokerage".

Buying Process

A good decision is the result of thoughtful planning. A buyer should establish certain criteria including: affordable price range; style and size of home; location; lot size; school locations and access to facilities such as shopping, medical care and businesses. Real estate brokers can offer assistance in these areas.

Selling Process

Once the decision to sell has been made, a number of other questions come to mind. What is a fair price under the current market conditions? What are the current market conditions? How can the property be marketed most effectively? How long will the process take and how should I proceed with future plans? Who will be able to help with contract and closing requirements? Some sellers have the experience and expertise to answer these questions, many others would prefer professional assistance from a real estate broker and/or an attorney.