The real estate industry changes often as it continually adapts to the changes in technology. The Internet, high speed computers, and specialized software has influenced the way the realtor and how the buyer and seller do business. In fact, with all the specialized on-line sites within the real estate industry, a buyer or seller may wonder whether or not they even need a real estate agent to buy or sell a home.
The answer to this question is yes! Selling or buying a home is a complex transaction and it is not something that is done everyday. Although the internet educates and provides vast amounts of information, it doesn’t show the customer how to apply to the complexities of real estate transactions.
Realtors have access to a vast database called a Multiple Listing System (MLS) that they use to list a seller’s home on the market. Agents subscribe to the database and use it to look for homes for potential buyers or to list homes for sellers. Working with a realtor will allow you to market your home or locate a home sooner than doing it by yourself. In fact, The National Association of Realtors stated that 60 percent or more of all homes that were For Sale By Owner (FSBOs) ended up listing with a real estate company to market their home.
The process of selling your home can be time consuming and involved. An agent will help cut your time and simplify the process by helping you negotiate a selling price for your home; creating, paying and placing advertising for you; scheduling appointments to show your home during work and non-work hours; eliminate buyers who don’t qualify for a mortgage; make referrals for insurance, inspections, legal counsel and financing; help negotiate a selling price with a buyer.
When enlisting the services of a real estate agent, make sure you find someone who is knowledgeable and whom you feel that you can develop a good working relationship with. Enlist the help of trustworthy friends and associates who can give you a good recommendation and then contact the agent and interview him/her. If you feel it is necessary, go out on an appointment with the agent or observe an open house that he/she is conducting. This will help determine if the person is the right agent for you.
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