Why Use a REALTOR®

There are many reasons to use a REALTOR during this process. REALTORS® are real estate professionals who belong to the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate brokers and agents are REALTORS®. To be sure you’re working with one, look for the federally registered membership mark, REALTOR®. This section contains specific information for the Home Buyers and Home Sellers. When buying a home, you can learn from the knowledge and skill of a REALTOR®:

• A REALTOR® helps you determine how much home you can actually afford. often a REALTOR® can suggest additional ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods.

• A REALTOR® can help you work out a realistic idea of the home best suited to your needs — size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools, transportation, shopping, and other personal preferences.

• A REALTOR® has access to a listing of available homes, can evaluate them in terms of your needs and affordability, and doesn’t waste your time on unsuitable homes.

• A REALTOR® often can suggest simple, imaginative changes that could make a home more suitable for you and improve its utility and value.

• A REALTOR® can supply information on real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, and may be aware of proposed zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy.

• A REALTOR® most often is the seller’s agent but acts as a liaison between you and the seller to present offers and counter-offers until an agreement is reached.

• A REALTOR® can tell you if local law requires an attorney at closing and most can provide you with a list to choose from if you don’t have one.

• A REALTOR® usually knows the local money market and can tell you about financing. A REALTOR® also can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when you apply for a loan.

• A REALTOR® can help familiarize you with the closing process by explaining it in advance.