A real estate agent can help you understand everything you need to know about the home buying process.
Not all real estate licensees are the same; only those who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® are properly called REALTORS®. They proudly display the REALTOR ” ®” trademark on their business cards and other marketing and sales literature.
REALTORS® are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate. An independent survey reported that 84% of home buyers would use the same REALTOR® again.
Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments of most people’s lifetime. Transactions today usually exceed $250,000. If you had a $250,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a certified professional accountant? If you had a $250,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be wise to work with a professional REALTOR® when you are buying a home.
If you’re still not convinced of the value of a REALTOR®, here are more reasons to use one:
- Your REALTOR® can help you determine your buying power –
- Your REALTOR® has many resources to assist you in your home search.
- Your REALTOR® can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property
- Your REALTOR® can help you with negotiations and inspections.
- Your REALTOR® provides due diligence during the property evaluation. Your REALTOR® can help you understand different financing options and identify qualified lenders.
- Coordinate appraisals and other issues your lender may require.
- Help you get and understand any homeowner association documents.
- Explain earnest money deposits, escrow accounts, and closing costs.
- Work with you and the seller’s agent to reach a smooth and problem-free closing.
- Go on a final walk-through to make sure everything is in order and any repairs have been made properly.
- Your REALTOR® can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.