Steering a course through the real estate market is a complicated process. To a majority of Americans, homeownership is still a huge part of their “American Dream.” For most people, it is the most expensive purchase they’ll make in their lifetime. NAR President, Gary Thomas states. “REALTOR® have the expertise and experience to help sellers protect their investment and help buyers build theirs.”
Buying or selling a home is a significant financial and emotional undertaking and having proper representation is critical.
WHAT DOES A REALTOR® DO?
When looking for a new home, almost 90% of buyers begin their search online1, but there’s no substitute for an experienced professional. But don’t just call the agent on a listing you like and sign up. That agent is working for the seller, who’s trying to get you to pay top dollar for their client’s home. You need a “buyer’s agent,” who represents you exclusively. Your REALTOR® can go beyond the basic statistics of a home, they can advise you regarding critical details in the homes you’re taking into consideration. They help you to make the most informed decision about one of life’s most important decisions. They can help you understand different financing options and identify qualified lenders. Your REALTOR® assists you in finding qualified responsible professionals during the evaluation of the property. They can also help you write a legally binding, win-win agreement that will be more likely to make it through the process.
When you are ready to list your home for sale, your REALTOR® can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the prices, financing, terms and conditions of competing properties. Your REALTOR® also enthusiastically markets your property to other real estate agents and the public. They help close the sale of your home. Between the initial sales agreement and closing (or settlement), questions may arise. For example, when unexpected repairs are required to obtain financing or a cloud in the title is discovered, the required paperwork alone is overwhelming for most sellers.
When you work with a REALTOR®, you have an expert who is looking out for your best financial interests.
Your agent is an expert who’s bound by contract to do everything in their power to protect you. The real estate market has frequent changes to laws, regulations, and procedures. As a REALTOR®, I live and breathe real estate and make it my business to stay current with all updates. Give me a call today, and let me put my knowledge and experience to work for you.
1 National Association of REALTORS® 2012 Survey of Home Buyers and Sellers.