A Realtor® or real estate salesperson is much more than the average salesperson. Their primary job is to help you buy or sell a home and represent your best interests. If you’re unfamiliar with the real estate “game”, the resources and expertise they provide is beyond most people’s initial understanding. Unless you are experienced in the biz, you will never know all of the pitfalls that can and do come up. Most of them will cost you more time, money and grief than the agent’s commission is worth. You may not even be aware of your “mistake” until after the transaction has closed. What they do is almost considered an art form. Even with all of the resources out there, primarily the internet, 4 out of 5 people still use an agent for a sale or purchase. The internet has enabled consumers to gain more information about the process and view some properties on line. Still, that’s the tip of the iceberg. Seeing all available properties and obtaining the most recent sales data can only be accessed by a licensed real estate agent who is a member of the local MLS. (Multiple Listing Service) Like an attorney, CPA or other professional, their skills and knowledge are highly desirable and well worth the price.
Whether you’re buying or selling, here is some of what they provide:
1 Accurate property pricing information.
2 Access to all available homes in your area.
3 The ability to list your home for sale on the MLS.
4 Access to literally a never ending supply of qualified buyers and sellers.
5 Local trends in the area.
6 School system information.
7 Accountability. They are responsible for their actions, providing you with a built in quality guarantee.
8 How to prepare your home for sale and get the best price.
9 How to prepare yourself as a buyer and get the best price.
10 Problem solving and negotiation skills.
11 Recommendations to financing professionals, home inspectors, insurance agents, contractors and the like.
12 Recommendations to other services in the community. These include schools, health care professionals, restaurants, veterinarians, cleaners, tradesman and a lot more.
For most people, buying or selling a home is near the top of the most important events in one’s life. Sure, some people are able to sell or buy a home without the services of a real estate agent. For sellers, that’s called a for-sale-by-owner, or FSBO. You attempt to figure out a price, then stick a sign out front. Next, wait to be contacted in person or by phone. Then, spend time dealing and negotiating with possible buyers, paperwork, and hope for the best. Will those buyers actually be able to qualify to buy your home? Most agents won’t show your home for several reasons. First, they won’t get paid. Second, FSBO’s are typically overpriced to begin with. Third, they will usually not work with a self-represented, inexperienced seller. Further, you won’t be able to use the MLS, which makes your home visible to all potential buyers.
Real estate brokers and sales agents are paid to sell properties. Depending on your area, that could be anything from farms to condos. They also find buyers the properties they’re searching for. Most spend endless hours assessing property values and searching through neighborhoods and cities. Why? That’s what it takes to best represent each client. It’s a full time job and only a professional can properly handle it for you. As always, if you need help or advice, just respond to this email.
