We are living in an age of the internet. Because the internet is such a pervasive part of our lives, information is ubiquitous. There are apps and websites where you can literally find EVERYTHING! We want to let you know that access to information means nothing if you do not have the training and experience to turn that information into something more than words on a screen. Such is the case with real estate.
Let’s say you’ve been given information on the perfect house. Whether you found it via word of mouth, the internet, an app, or just driving down the street and the clouds parted and there it was. The difference between either of those methods and the experience of dealing with a realtor is apples and torpedoes…totally disparate. Perfection is relative. The questions asked and answered by a real estate expert can make the biggest investment of your life, the best decision of your life.
Still in doubt? Just in case you need more convincing, here’s more on what a realtor can offer:
- Education & Experience…You don't need to know everything about buying and selling real estate if you hire a real estate professional who does. The trick is to find the right person. For the most part, they all cost roughly the same. Why not hire a person with more education and experience than you? You may do your homework, but a realtor lives real estate.
- Neighborhood Knowledge…Agents either possess in depth knowledge or they know where to find the industry scoop about your desired neighborhood. They can identify comparable sales (comps) and package these facts in a clearly understandable manner, in addition to pointing you in the direction where you can find additional data—on schools, crime or demographics, etc.
- Price Guidance…Contrary to what some people believe, agents do not select prices for sellers or buyers, the market does. However, a good agent will help guide clients to make the right choices for themselves, for the absolute best price. If a listing is at 7%, for example, an agent has a 7% vested interest in the sale, but the client has a 93% interest. Selling agents will ask buyers to weigh all the data supplied to them and to choose a price. Then based on market supply, demand and the conditions, the agent will devise a negotiation strategy.
- Professional Networking…Real estate agents network with other professionals. Due to legal liability, many agents will hesitate to recommend a certain individual or company over another, but they do know which vendors have a reputation for efficiency, competency and competitive pricing. Agents can, however, give you a list of references with whom they have worked and provide background information to help you make a wise selection.
- Negotiation Skills & Confidentiality…Top producing agents negotiate well because, unlike most buyers and sellers, they can remove themselves from the emotional aspects of the transaction. It's part of their job description. Good agents are not messengers, delivering buyer's offers to sellers and vice versa. They are professionals who are trained to present their client's case in the best light and agree to hold client information confidential from competing interests.
- Handling Volumes of Paperwork…Today's purchase agreements run 10 pages or more. Most real estate files average thicknesses from one to three inches of paper. One tiny mistake or omission could land you in court or cost you thousands.
- Answer Questions After Closing…Even the smoothest transactions that close without complications can come back to haunt. For example, taxing authorities that collect property tax assessments, doc stamps or transfer tax can fall months behind and mix up invoices, but one call to your agent can straighten out the confusion. Many questions can pop up that were overlooked in the excitement of closing. You may think the relationship is over when you get your keys, but good agents stand by ready to assist. Worthy and honest agents don't leave you in the dust to fend for yourself.
At the end of the day, experience and knowledge trumps all. You can value a friend’s opinion and read all the reviews of an app you want. When the rubber hits the road, you want the right tool for the right job. Purchasing a home with a realtor is like cutting a steak with a spoon. Ludicrous! The first and best step in your home buying process is hiring a realtor. Carod Properties is waiting for your call.
