Why Use a REALTOR®?

Selling a home is a complex process involving what’s likely to be your most prized financial asset. For most people, buying a home is the largest financial investment they will ever make. Enacting a smooth transaction for your homes full value requires the expertise of a REALTOR® whose extensive training has prepared him or her to generate the best possible results on your behalf. Homeowners rely on the REALTORS® expertise to help them find the most qualified buyer and to navigate throughout the home selling process. Just like you shouldn’t treat a broken leg without a doctor or handle a major legal dispute without an attorney, it’s unwise to sell your home without the professional assistance of a REALTOR®.

Naturally, every seller wants to reap the highest return from the sale. It’s tempting to sell the home on your own, thereby saving the REALTORS® fees. However, a study conducted by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) found that 82% of real estate sales result from REALTORS® contacts with previous clients, referrals and other sources. Additionally, NAR concluded that most homes sell for 3 to 9.5% more when sold through a REALTOR®.

Selling your home with a REALTOR® yields abundant advantages, including the following:

REALTORS® have access to Multiple Listing Services (MLS) to disburse information about your property to thousands of consumers via their REALTORS®. They also have other marketing vehicles at their disposal, such as open houses and referral networks. Through your REALTORS® marketing efforts, a much broader range of qualified buyers will be informed of your property’s availability. One of the REALTORS® most important roles is as the unbiased voice of reason. The REALTOR® is the objective set of eyes in the transaction. They help sellers see outside their personal connection to a property, and they help buyers stay level when faced with a multiple-bid situation. As a seasoned pro at negotiation skills and tactics, your REALTOR® can maintain objectivity in assessing buyers’ proposals and developing offers and counteroffers. Throughout the transaction, including appraisals, inspections and legally binding agreements, you can depend on your REALTORS® know-how to avoid any pitfalls. Sales transactions comprise intricate legal and regulatory requirements. REALTORS® are familiar with the regulations and can help you understand and adhere to them.

Financing
REALTORS® can help determine how much home you can afford, explain different financing options and refer you to the best-qualified lender.

Selection
REALTORS® have the resources to investigate all available properties and provide objective information about each property regarding the community and other important issues.

Negotiation
REALTORS® can advise you on factors such as price, financing, terms, date of possession, repairs and furnishings.

Inspection
REALTORS® can help provide enough time in the purchase agreement for inspections and investigations, plus advise which ones are required or recommended.

Closing
Every area has its own unique closing or settlement customs. A local REALTOR® can guide you through the process.

Pricing
When selling your property, REALTORS® can give you current market information to sell your property quickly, at the best price and with minimum hassle.

Marketing
A REALTOR® can recommend repairs to enhance the stability of your property and expose it to other agents, the public and cooperative marketing networks.

When it’s time to buy or sell your house, it’s time to turn to a professional. Someone with the expertise to get the job done right.