Whether this is the first time you’ve bought a home or the fifth, it can be an exhausting process. Real estate markets and practices vary between areas, leaving most buyers better off working with a professional. Here are 5 reasons why it’s a good idea to use a real estate agent when buying a home.
Do You Need A Real Estate Agent When Buying A Home?
There is no legal requirement for you to be represented by an agent in order to purchase a property. However, there are a number of reasons why working with an agent when buying a home is beneficial.
1. They Walk You Through The Process
The process of buying a home can be complicated with a number of steps. A real estate agent is experienced with the process of buying a property in the area where you are looking for a home. Knowing what to expect can take away some of the stress and uncertainty when navigating the real estate market.
2. Access To Upcoming Properties
Real estate agents have insider knowledge of properties that are coming available for sale but are not yet listed on the market. Their clients, then, have an advantage because they can act more quickly to place an offer on the house of their dreams. This is especially beneficial in real estate markets where housing is in high demand.
3. Convenience
Working with a real estate agent when buying a home helps with convenience. They will do most of the work for you. This is a major benefit for buyers who are busy with a move or put in long hours at work. Your real estate agent will show you a curated list of available properties based on your preferences and you can then choose which properties to visit.
4. Legalities
There are a lot of legalities when a property is transferred to a new owner. While most real estate agents are not lawyers, they have a strong understanding of the legalities involved. They work with title companies to make sure the title is clear before closing. This prevents ownership disputes over a piece of property from arising later. If a lawyer is needed for any reason, an agent can recommend a qualified real estate lawyer.
5. Negotiations
Real estate agents will negotiate on your behalf with the seller, especially if the home inspection reveals significant issues. It is common for properties to be sold with conditions. For example, if an inspection turns up that there is an issue with the roof, the seller may agree to fix it or subtract the cost of repairs from the sale price of the home. Negotiating can be intimidating for buyers, but real estate agents are experienced with representing the best interests of home buyers.
Robertson Home Inspection provides home inspection services for home buyers in the Piedmont Triad area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.