Working with a Real Estate Agent
If you’re considering buying a home, you have probably started looking at homes online from the moment the thought came to mind. Just the idea of buying a new home is exciting and somehow propels us to consider all of the wonderful possibilities associated with a ‘fresh’ start.
Buying a home seems simple enough; you find a home you like, contact the seller or the agent who’s sign is in the yard, take a look at the inside, sign the contract, get a loan, and finalize the transaction at the closing. I mean really…………what could go wrong? The short answer is; ‘anything and everything’.
Just as the seller may have an agent representing and protecting his or her interests in the sale of the property; shouldn’t you have someone representing and protecting your interests in the transaction as well? Even if the seller is a builder, offering newly constructed homes, the same holds true; and even more so if the seller is a ‘for sale by owner’.
This is not to imply any negative connotations in any way, shape or form to sellers; it just ensures transparency and non-bias in the transaction which is extremely important in a purchase of this magnitude.
As you embark on this pivotal chapter of your life, you should be aware that not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. Held to a higher standard of ethics, REALTORS® are required to maintain a certain amount of continuing education, industry related courses in a given year. This makes them well versed and current on real estate laws, contracts and industry related regulations. Naturally, working with a real estate professional that holds a REALTOR® designation is in your best interest.
My Buyer Services include (but not limited to) the following:
- complimentary consultation
- explanation of the home buying process
- provide list of lenders & related resources
- continuously provide a list of homes for sale
- provide access to homes not on the MLS
- tour homes that meet your criteria
- provide list of schools & area amenities
- review & explain the real estate contract
- provide comps & discuss offer strategy
- submit & negotiate offers on your behalf
- ensure that all parties receive a copy of the contract
- provide a list of utility & service providers for your new home
- review the inspection & home appraisal reports
- ongoing consultation during the process (as needed)
- remind you of important dates & tasks in the contract
- attend the home inspection (based on buyer’s request)
- renegotiate the terms of the contract if necessary
- ensure that seller obligations are completed
- ongoing communication with the lender & closing attorney
- accompany you to closing (make sure to bring 2 forms of ID)
- post Closing follow up
If you want to work with a REALTOR® that uses her ‘knowledge and experience to work for you,’ contact me today.
