When you’re ready to buy your first home, you have a lot of questions and concerns. The road from renter to homeowner can be full of twists and turns, and it makes sense to have a professional guide you on your way. Although online real estate sites can help you select homes you’re interested in, a professional Realtor can do much, much more.
Tailored homes to your preferences
Before you step foot in your first home tour, your Realtor will take time to understand your family’s needs, your budget, and what you really want in your home. A good agent will look for properties uniquely suited to your priorities.
Explanations of each step of the home shopping process
Your real estate agent will be able to show you properties that compare in the local market, as well as data about the market itself. A good Realtor will make it easy for you to understand each step in the buying process and counsel you along the way.
Reliable contacts
Your Realtor may likely know homes in the area that haven’t been listed yet. Real estate agents who have been working in the community know their fellow agents and have good working relationships, which can help ease transactions and setting of appointments. They may also know reputable vendors such as home inspectors, lending agents, and contractors.
They’re in your corner
A Buyer’s Agent works for the buyer – their fiduciary responsibility is to you and your family. They will look out for your best interests with expert advice and deep knowledge of the market. An agent that represents both the seller and the buyer may get a little trickier, however. Some home buyers think going directly to the listing agent will net them a lower price, but that’s not usually the case. Representing the seller, that listing agent is going to advise against a low-ball offer. An agent that just represents the buyer, however, has no ties to the selling owner, and therefore will gladly help their buyers make the most advantageous offer.
Negotiate on your behalf
Your agent should be able to help negotiate not only the sale price of the home but may help with any other costs or contingencies associated with the home buying process. They can help write the offer, as well as any counteroffer. Should the home inspection find needed repairs, your buyer’s agent can make those requests in a business transaction manner.
Manage all your details
There’s a lot to real estate transactions, and a savvy real estate agent can help you with the paperwork, as well as explain all the “legalese” in the written offers and documents. For instance, if you forget a set of initials or to mark an “x” in a box, the document will need to be resubmitted. A good agent will make sure that your paperwork is right the first time.
Protect your interests
There can be many small things that can kill a great real estate deal, and a good Realtor can help you avoid these pitfalls. For instance, there may be an issue with the home title, or a lender may miss a deadline. Maybe your home inspection reveals plumbing issues you didn’t notice during your home tours. An experienced agent can see trouble before it’s too late, and help you handle issues as they arise.
A professional Real Estate Agent is more than just someone to book viewing appointments. The best agents are part of your homebuying team and will be a listening ear as well as a trusted and skilled guide.
Buying a home can be daunting, but we’re here to help! If you have questions, feel free to call or text us anytime! 909-921-2544
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