by Angela Brown

Created on: October 28, 2008

What Can A Realtor Do For Me?

When buying or selling a home, one of the first things people debate is whether to hire a Realtor.

That always surprises me.

Real estate is one of the biggest financial investments of your life. We're talking about a transaction that involves hundreds of thousands of dollars! Most folks don't realize that even the smallest detail of a real estate transaction needs to be tended to with professional care. When you measure the cost versus the risk, it seems obvious that your best bet is to hire a Realtor.

Still not convinced? Consider this:

1. Realtors have access to many resources that that the average person does not. They can help you find EVERY property available that meets your needs, whether those properties are advertised or not!

2. Realtors are a great source for objective information on properties. In short, if you want to find a home in a nice community with great schools that will provide you with a solid return on your investment, you need a Realtor!

3. Realtors understand financing. Unlike banks, they often have access to a network of lenders. Answer a few questions, and they can refer you to a lender who is most qualified to help you, regardless of your credit history or current situation.

4. Realtors are great investigators. Most homes are chock full of hidden dangers that could cost you dearly. Problems such as unstable foundations, dry rot, pest problems, etc. are not always obvious. REALTORS have access to a network of qualified professionals who can uncover these problems, BEFORE you make an offer!

5. Realtors are great negotiators. Whether it's the price of the property, the terms of the deal, the financing, or any of a number of other factors, your Realtor is there to help you get the most bang for your buck!

6. Realtors understand the market. What is the best price you can get for your property right now? What is the going interest rate? How does your home compare to others currently on the market? Your Realtor can help answer all of these and MUCH more!

7. Realtors are great marketers and advertisers. They market your property to the public. They market it to other real estate agents through the MLS and other cooperative marketing networks. But most importantly, they know when, where and how to advertise your property to bring in the most qualified prospects.

8. Realtors are detail oriented. From evaluating property value to closing or settling, the process of buying or selling a home is fraught with potential problems. Realtors understand both the process AND the often overwhelming amount of paperwork, and their job is to tend to every detail so you don't have to!

The bottom line? You wouldn't risk facing a $150,000 lawsuit without an attorney. Still think you should buy that $150,000 house without hiring a Realtor?

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