Redfin To Begin Working With Outside Agents

Seattle-based online real estate brokerage Redfin has announced it will stat working with outside agents in markets where it has no agents of its own.

"We've got nearly half a million people browsing our website in areas where we can't afford to have agents," Redfin Chief Executive Glenn Kelman said. "So we're asking those folks if they want to work with a traditional agent, but on Redfin's terms."

Clients who buy form one of the outside agents will receive half of Redfin's referral fee, which is usually run 30% of the agents commission.Customers will be able to choose an agent from profiles that show details of every transaction since Dec. 15, 2007 and every review Redfin could get for those transactions.

Unique Spaces in Seattle

The Smith Tower Residences

There are many weird residences in and around Seattle, but none as cool as the Smith Tower Penthouse. The space sits on the 37th floor was originally occupied by the buildings manager and shared the space with a 10,000-gallon, cast iron water tank, which was dissembled and removed through the elevator in 1996. In 1997 a women (all attempts to located the wealthy lady were unsuccessful) signed a 40 year lease and had the space renovated by architectural firm, Castanes Partners. A massive Dale Chihuly chandelier hangs down through the center of the residence making the unique space taste like blueberry.

Fun Facts:
The Smith Tower opened on July 4, 1914. At he time of completion is the was the fourth tallest building in the world and weighed 48,650 tons. It remained the tallest building west of the Mississippi River for almost 50 years.
The Penthouse is the only residence in the building.









We plan on updating the Unique Spaces Of Seattle Series every month. Suggestions are welcome.