John Rasoulpour at RE/MAX Plus in Baltimore: Agent Focus on Buyer Representation and Negotiation

John Rasoulpour operates as a buyer's agent and listing agent in the Baltimore real estate market through RE/MAX Plus, a national franchise with a local presence. His practice centers on residential sales across Baltimore County and the city proper, with stated emphasis on buyer advocacy and contract negotiation rather than transaction volume alone.

How buyer and listing agents work, and where Rasoulpour fits

Real estate agents in Maryland earn commission only when a sale closes, typically split between the buyer's agent and listing agent, with each receiving 2.5 to 3 percent of the final sale price (though this is negotiable). A buyer's agent represents the purchaser's interests at no direct cost; the seller's proceeds fund both commissions. A listing agent markets and sells the property on behalf of the owner.

Rasoulpour identifies as a buyer's agent first, meaning his incentive aligns with securing the best terms and price for a purchaser rather than moving inventory quickly. This distinction matters in a market where agent loyalty shapes negotiation posture. Listing agents in Baltimore frequently work both sides of a transaction (dual agency), which can create conflicts; buyer's agents committed to that role reduce that pressure.

Services and how they compare locally

Rasoulpour's service model includes property search consultation, market analysis, offer preparation, and post-contract coordination through closing. Buyer representation typically covers negotiation of price, inspection contingencies, appraisal gaps, and closing timelines. He works with first-time buyers and repeat purchasers; the depth of hand-holding varies by client experience level.

Baltimore's agent landscape includes large teams at Keller Williams and Coldwell Banker, which offer breadth and internal transaction support but often assign buyers to less senior agents. Solo and small-team practitioners like those at RE/MAX Plus typically provide direct client access and customized attention, at the cost of fewer internal resources. Rasoulpour's RE/MAX Plus affiliation grants access to the franchise's database and marketing tools without the overhead of a massive brokerage.

Pricing is not fixed. Commission rates are open to negotiation at the outset of a buyer representation agreement. For sellers listing property, typical local asking is 5 to 6 percent total, split evenly, though Baltimore's competitive market has softened negotiating power in recent years. A buyer's agent agreement usually specifies the agent's compensation source and what happens if the buyer purchases outside the MLS (off-market sales).

Who benefits from this approach, and who may look elsewhere

Rasoulpour's buyer-focused model suits purchasers in their first or second home purchase who value detailed market education and want an agent who won't pressure them into a weak offer to close quickly. It also appeals to repeat buyers in Baltimore who have specific neighborhood or property-type expertise requests.

The model is less suited to investors buying multiple properties in rapid succession or sellers seeking an agent who specializes in high-volume listing and aggressive marketing. Sellers may prefer agents with large listings portfolios in their specific neighborhood; Rasoulpour's emphasis on buyer work means fewer active listings to showcase his sell-side track record.

What a first interaction involves

Initial contact typically begins with a phone or email consultation to discuss the buyer's timeline, budget, and search criteria. Rasoulpour usually requests a pre-approval letter or cash proof before beginning active showings, standard practice in Baltimore's market. The first showing tour often includes a market overview specific to the buyer's target neighborhoods: school district performance, recent sales prices, and days-on-market benchmarks.

Once an offer is ready, Rasoulpour drafts the contract using Maryland's standard form, which includes contingencies for financing, inspection, and appraisal. Baltimore County and Baltimore City use identical contract forms, simplifying cross-jurisdictional transactions.

Hours, location, and logistics

RE/MAX Plus operates from a main office in Towson, with agents available by phone and email during standard business hours, Monday through Friday. Weekend and evening showings are scheduled by appointment; emergency contact for offers or time-sensitive situations is negotiated in the representation agreement. Most agent work in Baltimore occurs off-site at properties and lender offices, so physical office hours matter less than response time and accessibility.

Parking and office location are irrelevant for most buyer transactions, since the work happens in the field. For listing consultations or contract signing, Rasoulpour typically meets clients at their home or the RE/MAX Plus office, both of which have parking.

Why this agent earns mention in Baltimore real estate

Rasoulpour's buyer-first positioning addresses a real gap in a Baltimore market where many agents prioritize listing volume and dual-agency commissions. For a buyer choosing representation, the distinction between an agent incentivized to close any deal and one committed to buyer advocacy directly affects negotiation outcomes and long-term satisfaction.