Buying a home isn’t a business — it’s personal. That’s why dealing directly with sellers, rather than through a real estate agent, can be tricky and uncomfortable for people who are on the hunt for a new home.
For starters, going it alone and searching for potential properties can be a daunting task. One of the hardest parts of the home buying process is finding the perfect house in the first place. It’s a real estate agent’s job to do the research on available homes and gather information on the current market. Taking on that work yourself can be time-consuming and frustrating, so getting help from a professional can save unnecessary stress and will most likely yield greater results.
Agents also have valuable knowledge of the neighborhood you’re buying in that a seller might not share with you. Investing in a home means you’re investing in the area as well, so you have to make an informed decision on where you buy. REALTORS will make sure you know what you’re getting into and save you from being unpleasantly surprised just because a seller kept you in the dark.
When sellers show their home directly to buyers, it’s very easy for interactions between the two parties to turn into confrontations. Any flaws that you might point out about the house, can be insulting to sellers and put them on the defense. Not to mention, a buyer and seller’s goals are intrinsically at odds: you want to buy for the lowest price possible while they want to sell for the highest price possible.
Without an agent acting as an advocate for you, you’re left on your own to negotiate with the seller. Unfortunately, not everyone has negotiation skills, and you might end up paying much more than you should. Real estate agents are savvy negotiators and they act as intermediaries who facilitate communication in a positive manner. Keeping them in the loop can save the buying and selling experience from turning sour.
REALTORS are invaluable when it comes to figuring out what kinds of inspections you need and deciphering complicated paperwork. They’ll also have your back and make sure you receive all the disclosures you’re entitled to that a seller might leave out during negotiations. They’ve been through it all and can point out contractual conditions you might have missed on your own that could trip you up down the line.
In the end, using a real estate agent can minimize the risk that comes with buying a house and ensure a smoother transition into your new home. So, don’t make house hunting any harder than it needs to be. Let the professionals do the heavy lifting and enjoy the search for your future.
Download a Buyers Guide for more information.