A Guide for Homebuyers
When it comes to buying or selling a home, there's a reason that most people hire a real estate agent to help ensure that the process goes smoothly: real estate agents are experts in the field of home sales, with a wealth of knowledge, experience, and connections to draw on. From start to finish, you can expect your agent's invaluable assistance with many aspects of a home purchase.
Your real estate agent's first order of business is to help you locate a home that most closely matches your criteria and lifestyle. With access to information about multiple homes, neighborhoods, and communities, your agent will be able to help you narrow your search to properties that are right for you. He or she can then help you schedule showings so that you can visit and compare homes that interest you. Since your agent is a well-connected professional, he or she may have advice for finding a lender who can help you secure pre-approval for home financing – if you haven't already done so.
You should be able to expect confidentiality and professionalism from your agent throughout the process of buying a new home. Since your agent is an expert, you can turn to him or her for explanations of any aspects of the sale that are unfamiliar or problematic. If there are any concerns about the property or the seller that your agent is aware of, he or she is bound to disclose that information to you.
Once you locate a house that interests you, your agent will be able to advise you as to whether the home is listed at a fair price and suggest what type of offer you might wish to make to the seller. He or she will be looking to secure the best deal for you and will act as a guide once you've made that offer, stepping you through the entire process through closing and providing you with the facilitation necessary to ensure that the sale goes smoothly. He or she will assist with the purchase contract, holding any money in escrow for you, helping complete any necessary paperwork, lining up a home inspection, and facilitating any necessary negotiations. Your agent's position as an intermediary means that he or she will act on your behalf and in your best interest, eliminating your direct contact with the seller should any complications arise during the offer or close.
Whether you are a first-time home buyer or a seasoned veteran, hiring a real estate agent will help you eliminate many of the headaches that accompany a home purchase. Relying on a knowledgeable expert can save you time and money and streamline a process that can be fraught with unexpected twists and turns. Finding an agent who is compatible with you is important, so ask around, shop around, and go with your gut when you choose your real estate agent.
In my next blog, I'll share what to expect from your real estate agent when you list your own home on the market and the important ways in which he or she can assist in the sale of your home.