Are you thinking of buying a home? Has the possibility of being scammed or swindled crossed your mind? Well, it should and let that thought settle. Here is why you need a registered real estate agent to buy a home.
Why you need a real estate agent to buy a home
Local expertise
Seasoned real estate agents have first-hand knowledge of the local real estate market. With this in mind, your agent will be able to guide you and counsel you on some pertinent issues. Some of the questions your agent will help you answer include:
- What is the local real estate market right now?
- Can you expect to compete against multiple offers?
- Do you know what it takes to win against other bidders?
- What is the inventory like?
Also, keep in mind that the best way to get an offer accepted at a price that is in your favour is to have in-depth knowledge of the local market. And your local real estate agent does.
Access to homes
Getting access to most homes is difficulty without a real estate agent. Most sellers are more willing to give buyer’s agents access to homes than to a complete stranger. As such, you will only be able to visit a home when either the seller or their agent is available. This makes scheduling showings both time-consuming and difficult. Most buyers who decide to go it alone can only view homes during open houses. In addition, any questions you may have about a home will produce answers that have the seller’s best interests at heart.
Advocacy
When you engage a real estate agent, you will have an experienced advocate and negotiator. While most homebuyers experience stress and strong emotions when buying a home, agents look at transactions with a more experienced and rational eye. As such, realtors can help you understand your options and serve as a balance against making a rash decision. Moreover, agents advocate on your behalf at the negotiating table. With this in mind, a real estate agent can get you the best deal possible.
Networking power
When going through the home-buying process you will require different professionals at various stages of the transaction. In the course of your transaction, you will require a mortgage lender, a home inspector as well as a real estate lawyer. Agents have worked with many real estate service professionals and will be able to recommend professionals whose style and personality match yours. Similarly, real estate agents will have recommendations for handymen, plumbers, painters, floorers and general contractors.
Paperwork
Real estate agents will do the paperwork for you. Drafting the paperwork required in real estate transactions is not something that is easily learnt. Crafting this documentation is an art that takes a certain level of expertise to perfect. Buyer’s agents are qualified at drafting real estate documents with the best possible terms to ensure your interests are protected.
