Clients often ask us, “Why should we hire a Realtor?” They often feel they can sell their home through the internet or advertising channels such as newspapers and magazines. Alternatively, they can buy homes by attending open houses or communicating with sellers independently. People who decide to represent themselves do fine but have many struggles, including buying and selling promptly or negotiating the best deal possible. There are several reasons for this.
Education and Experience
One of the most significant benefits of hiring a Realtor is education and experience. Realtors are educated about the nuances of real estate and typically have experience.
Realtors Are Buffers
Whether buying or selling, a Realtor acts as a buffer by looking out for your best interests. If you are a seller, a Realtor will field calls from potential buyers and their representatives and negotiate with them on your behalf when the time comes. If you are a buyer, a Realtor will look for a home that fits your needs and wants, arrange showings, communicate with the seller and their representatives, and negotiate on your behalf.
Neighborhood Knowledge
Real estate agents have firsthand knowledge or an understanding of where to get information about the latest buzz surrounding your neighbourhood. They can identify comparable sales and present these facts to you, guiding you on where to find additional data on schools, crime rates or demographics. For instance, you may be aware of a home that was up for sale for $350,000 down the street, but an agent will know that it had upgrades and was sold for $285,000 after being on the market for 65 days and falling out of escrow twice.
Price Guidance
Although realtors do not select prices for buyers and sellers, a Realtor can help provide guidance when selecting prices and provide as much data as possible to help educate you as a buyer or seller.
Market Conditions Information
Realtors have tools and perform research to determine market conditions, which can help you when buying or selling. Such information includes average price per square foot, medial and intermediate sales prices, average days on the market, etc., which will help you through the decision-making process.
Professional Networking
Realtors often network with other professionals or professionals you will need to work with when you buy or sell. Through networking with other Realtors, they can often communicate with them to see if they have any properties that fit your needs as a buyer or any sellers for your property as a seller. In addition, they can provide a list of references for professionals such as lawyers, condo document reviewers, inspectors, etc., to help you through the process.
Negotiation Skills and Confidentiality
Understandably, emotions play a significant role in buying and selling real estate. One benefit of having a Realtor is that they can remove themselves from the emotional aspect of buying and selling a home. Realtors are professionals trained and experienced in presenting their clients’ cases in the best light and do so with their clients’ best interests in mind. In addition, Realtors are professionals who must hold all client information confidential.
Answering Questions
As a buyer or seller, you may have many questions before, during, and even after the transaction. This is what your Realtor is for. A Realtor has the necessary knowledge and experience to answer questions related to the transaction, including neighbourhood information, property information, etc. Also, remember that the relationship does not end after the transaction. If you have any questions after the transaction, you can always contact your Realtor. For example….
Paperwork
A real estate transaction comes with a lot of paperwork. There is a lengthy purchase contract and potential waivers, notices, amendments, etc. A Realtor can assist you with this! In addition, you may need to request other documents, such as condo documents, etc., from the property parties or get the necessary documents from your lawyer for closing. A Realtor can assist you with this as well. Overall, our most significant suggestion is to find the right person. There needs to be a specific definition or guideline for finding the right person. However, it would be best if you found a Realtor that you feel works best in your situation, holds the necessary education and experience, and is one that you have chemistry with. Feel free to ask questions or seek reasons for their opinions. Your home is one of the most significant assets you will hold in your lifetime, and you must choose the right professional to help you through the buying and selling process.
