Advantages of a Realtor

There are two major advantages to using a real estate agent. Especially for those who are moving to a new area. An agent knows how the process works, and an agent is in tune with the market in the area. These two areas of expertise are invaluable when looking for a home.

Before expounding on the two areas mentioned above I want to point out something that is often overlooked. The real estate agent you use is an AGENT. That means that they MUST do what you ask them too, keep all your information confidential, and work for your best interest, along with other legally mandated responsibilities. That means that they work for you. You have access to all their expertise while maintaining complete control over your side of the transaction.

In regards to the process; buying a home is unlike any other purchase. Historically, as far back as medieval England, land ownership has been linked to legal rights held by someone. Since this common law system is where we derive much of our legal foundation, property ownership today retains a prodigious amount of red tape. Your agent’s expertise in this process will go a long way toward making that red tape manageable.

Additionally most homes are not bought with cash, financing is needed. While an agent is not an “expert" at lending, they will be able to point you in the right direction.

As to the area; your agent deals in this market every day. They should be well informed on both the geographic characteristics and the real estate market of where you are planning on buying. An agent can point you to resources to learn almost anything you want to know about an area.

Agents will likely have access to a greater inventory list than the average person as well. This in turn gives you, the buyer more access to more houses. You will have more access to the homes that interest you as well. Your agent can set up showings and actually walk you through any home you want to see.

Finally, all this expertise comes to a head in negotiations. An agent’s knowledge of the area and market, combined with his or her experience in home buying pays huge dividends when negotiating a price. A good agent can tell you what to spend in an area at a given time and should be able to get the best price for the home you want.

While it may sound too good to be true, in many circumstances agents don’t cost the buyer anything. The industry standard is that the agent’s commission comes from the seller’s side of the transaction. So for residents buying a home, an agent offers invaluable information for free.