RESEARCH REALTORS
Researching and selecting the right realtor is crucial when buying a home. Look for a realtor with extensive experience in your preferred area and type of property. With over two million licensed professionals nationwide, their job is to be experts on properties in their local market.
BENIFITS OF USING A REALTOR®
A Great Realtor® Is: Knowledgeable, Responsive, Ethical, Detail-oriented, A skilled communicator and negotiator.
Neighborhood Knowledge
Agents either possess intimate knowledge or they know where to find the industry buzz about your neighborhood. They can identify comparable sales and hand these facts to you, in addition to pointing you in the direction where you can find more data on schools, crime or demographics.
Market Condition
Real estate agents can disclose market conditions, which will govern your selling or buying process. Many factors determine how you will proceed. Data such as the average per square foot cost of similar homes, median and average sales prices, average days on market and ratios of list-to-sold prices, among other criteria, will have a huge bearing on what you ultimately decide to do.
Professional Networking
Real estate agents' network with other professionals, many of whom provide services that you will need to buy or sell. Due to legal liability, many agents will hesitate to recommend a certain individual or company over another, but they do know which vendors have a reputation for efficiency, competency, and competitive pricing.
Price Guidance & Negotiation
Agents negotiate well because, unlike most buyers and sellers, they can remove themselves from the emotional aspects of the transaction and because they are skilled. It's part of their job description. Contrary to what some people believe, agents do not select prices for sellers or buyers. However, an agent will help to guide clients to make the right choices for themselves.
REALTOR® ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, a licensed Realtor® is your trusted guide and advocate throughout the real estate journey.
Client Representation
- Act in the best interests of the buyer or seller at all times.
- Provide expert guidance, confidentiality, and ethical service under the Realtor® Code of Ethics.
Market Knowledge
- Analyze local market trends, pricing, and neighborhood insights.
- Advise on timing, strategy, and pricing to help clients make informed decisions.
Property Search & Showings (Buyers)
- Identify homes that meet the buyer’s needs and budget.
- Coordinate and schedule showings, virtual tours, or private viewings.
Listing & Marketing (Sellers)
- Price the home strategically using a comparative market analysis (CMA).
- Coordinate staging, photography, and marketing (MLS, social media, email, print).
- Host open houses and agent tours.
Contract Preparation & Negotiation
- Draft offers, counteroffers, and contingency terms.
- Negotiate price, repairs, and deadlines to protect the client’s interests.
Transaction Management
- Coordinate inspections, appraisals, title work, and financing deadlines.
- Keep everyone on track through closing—including lender, title company, inspector, and attorney (if applicable).
Problem-Solving
- Troubleshoot issues like inspection findings, appraisal gaps, or financing delays.
- Provide calm, informed solutions to keep the deal on track.
Support After Closing
- Offer guidance on moving, homeownership tips, and market updates.
- Stay in touch for future needs and referrals.