Why not just be more direct with your potential buyers or sellers? Why add another layer to this already complicated process? In reality, a real estate agent actually makes this process less complicated. A real estate agent is your liaison. They work for you and have a wealth of experience and utilities to help you make the best decision possible. Here are several reasons why a real estate agent is a smart choice to save you time, money, and effort:
•Access to more houses. That dream house may not be listed on the market in the usual sense. A real estate agent can expose these houses to you, giving you more choices. They can also set you up on a website that automatically emails you listings that meet your criteria.
• Negotiation. Offers and counteroffers can be a tricky business. By having someone experienced in this environment, you can ensure that you're getting the best deal. In addition, this is where your real estate agent can negotiate to have new appliances or fresh carpeting installed without the hassle of you doing it.
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• Statistics. While it may not be the most charming word, your real estate agent can give you easy to digest information on the house you're interested in. This information could be concerning resale value, the local community, the schools, the infrastructure, and other items of interest.
• Protection. A house is a huge investment. And while it's important that you like how it looks on the outside, the inside also matters. Your real estate agent will advise you to hire a home inspector who will inspect the house thoroughly for any major problems such as foundation issues, water damage, heating, electrical and plumbing concerns. Your agent may provide you with a list of competent home inspectors.
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• Legal advice. Your real estate agent will point you in the right direction for legal advice. Attorneys can handle all the paperwork in the real estate transactions, including reviewing offers, purchases, leases and inspection and appraisal reports. They also can resolve title and environmental issues.
I have just touched the surface on why you should use a real estate agent. Buying real estate is a very complicated endeavor. If you were taking a road trip wouldn’t you consult a map? Think of your agent as a map to your future home.
About the author: Patricia Lovett is a Realtor at RE/MAX Legacy and is part of The Alliance Home Team. You can learn more about Patricia by visiting her website www.pattylovett.com
