We’re a mortgage broker, but our role in the home buying process puts us right in the middle of the home buyer and the real estate agent that serves them. This gives us a unique view of the entire transaction, and over the years we have come to learn a lot about just how much real estate agents impact the process.
Buying and/or selling a home, especially for the first time, is an extremely nerve-wracking process. It is often the largest transaction any person makes and therefore having the right team in place to represent your interests is important. But many don’t realize how important and beneficial it is for them to find a good real estate agent.
Here are seven ways real estate agents help home buyers and sellers every step of the real estate transaction.
1. Agents cost home buyers nothing!
First and foremost, real estate agents don’t cost home buyers a penny, so there is really no good reason not to use one. The agent is compensated on the sell-side of the transaction. So once a house sells, the seller pays both the buyer’s agent and the listing agent.
2. The purchase agreement is a legal document and real estate agents protect buyers and sellers.
Real estate agents aren’t necessarily bar-certified legal professionals (though some are), but their experience in the market helps them understand what to look out for in the purchase agreement between the buyer and seller. All home buyers and sellers are going to want that expertise to make sure they aren’t taken advantage of during the process.
3. From showings, to inspections, to title work, real estate agents help you get things done.
From setting up and coordinating showings, to helping schedule a private in-home inspection, and even helping with the title companies, your real estate agent helps move the transaction along. This saves you a ton of time and energy, especially if you’re a first-time home-buyer and aren’t as familiar with the process.
Additionally, you probably won’t want to coordinate the 10, 20, 30, or more showings when you’re looking for a house. Your agent handles all of that for you. You’ll just show up on the scheduled time and the agent will get you in to see the house.
4. Agents represent the interests of the home buyer during the negotiations.
Your agent’s experience makes him/her privy to things you just wouldn’t know, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. From the initial offer to the closing table, a lot can transpire along the way and your real estate agent looks out for you and your best interest at every phase of the process.
5. Agents know how to market your home when selling.
The reality is that the majority of home buyers are going online to see what homes are available for purchase. A good real estate agent will make sure you have high-quality photos that capture your home in the best possible way. You’ll need to get the house cleaned up, but your agent can capture the photos and get everything posted so your house starts getting hits immediately.
6. Agents will help you get top dollar when selling and the best price when buying.
When you’re looking to buy or sell, agents understand the market. Whether prices are going up in your neighborhood, are flat or are dropping, your agent will help you understand what to expect from the market. If you’re selling, your agent’s knowledge will help you price your home appropriately to get top dollar. If you’re buying, agents understand how to get the best price for a home by looking at historical information and negotiating effectively.
7. Agents know people.
From the home buying process to the world of home ownership, agents often know the best vendors for whatever you need. From mortgage providers and private home inspectors, to roofers and plumbers, a good real estate agent has developed a network of pros that can help you before, during and after you purchase your home.
These are just a few ways agents can make the home buying process an enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for an agent, but not sure where to go, we’d be happy to help. We’ve worked with many agents over the years and can recommend someone suited for your particular home buying needs. You can contact us here or call 248-792-8876.
