There are many reasons why you should hire a professional real estate agent when buying a home. Certainly you can try navigating the home buying process yourself, but if you have not previously purchased a property, you should do a lot of research before you attempt to do this on your own. The process can be long and overwhelming. Here is a few things to consider about the valuable insight your local agent can provide:
Experience
Experience is where an agent earns their commission. They know the neighborhoods and they have their pulse on the market 24/7; this is what they do for a living. They know what is selling and for how much. They get updated daily on what is for sale, or about to be. They can tell you when a house is overpriced or when it is a good deal just by looking at the listing.
The MLS is like having an insider trader’s knowledge. They have toured the houses that are for sale and can narrow down your choices based on your criteria. Otherwise you will be wasting time driving around peeking in windows and setting up appointments. Remember that pictures can be deceiving.
A Variety of Options
You may have a pretty good idea where you want to relocate and the neighborhood you are looking for. However, your real estate agent can show you alternatives that may save you money and give you a better investment. For example, an adjacent street to the neighborhood you want may be selling for half the price. Your agent will also know of any up-and-coming neighborhoods where your money may stretch a little further.
Consider that once you start the process you may come up with another hundred questions and having your real estate agent answer in a quick text or email can save you hours of research.
An Objective Opinion
Buying a home is a very stressful and emotional time for you and your family. Everyone has an opinion about what and where to buy. The more choices there are the more contentious those opinions may be. Your real estate agent will be the objective party. They have worked with other clients just like you and they will give you the facts that you should consider, setting aside emotion. After all, this is a business decision.
Help with Negotiations
Your agent will also act as the intermediary in the negotiations. They will relay the information back and forth between parties and give you time to digest that information and discuss with your family. Once you reach a decision, you can run the decision by the agent to get an objective perspective.
Paperwork Assistance
Your agent will also provide you with all the information and forms you require. They will make sure all items in the check list are completed and know how to fix any hiccups. They are also very knowledgeable with bank, mortgage, and housing lending languages and terms. The steps in the process can be overwhelming at times and sometimes deals fall through. An experienced real estate agent will guide you through all the steps and explain in detail what your options are.
Recommending Additional Professionals
There are also other people you may need to hire like a home inspector. Your agent will have great recommendations. Otherwise you will have to try your luck with the advertisements.
Find REALTORS in Lockhart TX
Ready to start your new home search? Contact Lone Star Realty, a Lockhart real estate agency, to learn how we can help!
