This month we are exploring the
question, “Why do I need to work with a real estate agent?”
This week centers on experience and knowledge on the seller side.
Listing your home for sale by owner sounds like a
great idea because you're trying to save that 6%. On the flip side, it often costs thousands of
dollars in the sales price due to lack of exposure and can cost even more if
legal property disclosures are not handled correctly. This is where the
experience and knowledge of a real estate agent is worth its weight in gold.
On the buying side, agents know what to look for
when viewing a home and how to handle home inspections properly. Did you know
that not all septic inspections are created equal? Your real estate agent does
and will know what tests you need, the cost of each and how you can determine
which are essential and which are not.
Buyers and sellers can both benefit from an
experienced real estate agent's ability to negotiate over time. Agents learn
what works and what doesn't and they are able to take the emotion out of the
equation because emotion often clouds judgment.
Most importantly, real estate agents understand the
real estate contract and can help you avoid pitfalls. For example, the as is
home inspection with the right to terminate is a popular way to inspect in
today's market. Did you know that addendum also removes your right to ask the
seller to pay for a termite treatment if one is necessary? A top-notch agent
knows how to navigate that scenario to protect you.
The bottom line is this, leverage the knowledge and
experience of your real estate agent
and they will be worth every penny they earn.
If you need more information, please reach to me to
answer any real estate questions you may have.