Why is Using a REALTOR a Great Idea?
By Chris Petry
So, you’ve decided to buy a home. Congrats! Or, no, wait. You’re selling? Ah, yes. Time to upgrade! Or downsize. Regardless of your real estate ambitions, having a well-informed REALTOR at your side is a must.
The internet has revolutionized the way we shop, date, and do business. It’s tempting to treat a real estate transaction the same way. Which is to say, DIY. Don’t do it. While you can certainly learn how to garden, fix your shower head, brush up on your Italian, or tie the perfect bow from a YouTube tutorial, some things are best left to the professionals. Below, you’ll find five reasons why.
REALTORS are better informed- First off, they’re licensed. This means they sat through two rather intensive real estate courses (both of which featured end of course testing) and studied for hours on end before taking state and federal exams to complete the licensing procedure. Afterward, they are REQUIRED to take continuing education courses every 2 years. Of course, the most successful REALTORS are continually learning, challenging themselves to stay informed of current economic and marketing trends as well as implementing the most cutting-edge tools and technology to service their clients. Furthermore, it’s their job to keep you the client up to speed. It may be tempting to watch an online how-to and call it good but do you really want to risk it? Why not have a knowledgeable real estate professional in your corner who can answer all your burning questions?
They can get your home seen by more people- Not only do they know how to best market your home for visibility, they also have access to the MLS (or Multiple Listing Service). The MLS is a virtual listing service wherein agents (and by extension their brokerage), list your property and property details. This listing is shared with other brokerages. Of course, those brokerages have their own REALTORS and clients. Think of it like a cooperation between professionals that often results in an alignment of their clients’ real estate goals.
They can be your very own real estate therapist- One of the most important things a real estate agent can do is listen. Listen to their client’s wants, needs, and concerns. It’s their fiduciary duty to put your interests first. They do not exist to coerce or influence your decisions. Only to ascertain what you want from your real estate experience and lay the groundwork for that success. If a particular aspect of the process gives you pause, they will step in to guide you on the right course.
They’re a tireless advocate on your behalf- REALTORS will go to bat for you when needed. If you’re a seller, they will prepare a comparative marketing analysis, make suggestions for the maximization of your home’s potential, submit counter offers, stage a marketing campaign and manage open houses and showings. If you’re a buyer, they will help you gain access to properties for walkthroughs, submit offers on your behalf, and create a rapport with the seller’s agent to ensure your needs and concerns are given the attention they deserve.
Branding - You may not have considered it but just how much more traction do you think your home will gain if it has a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty sign in the front yard? Representation from a well-known and respected brand can do a lot to stir up interest and increase visibility.
If you’re committed to buying or selling a home in the near future, be sure to speak to a REALTOR from your local branch of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred. You’ll be glad you did!
