Whether you’re in the market for beach homes or single-family homes, you can’t go wrong with recruiting the assistance of a local real estate agent. Realtors are trained experts equipped with the skills to handle any and all real estate transactions, making them a crucial addition to every home-buying team. Here are seven benefits of depending on a real estate agent to help you land the perfect home.
1. Agents know and understand the market
The real estate market is in a constant state of change, with fluctuations affecting home prices and interest rates week by week, if not on a daily basis. Since every region and neighborhood has its own market vastly different from the national market, it’s important to keep oneself apprised of local trends. Fortunately, one of an agent’s many responsibilities is paying close attention to the local market. Every agent understands how to read market data and trends and therefore knows the best time for you to embark on your real estate journey.
2. Agents save you time and money
Real estate agents expedite the home-buying process because they already know what to look for and expect. They’ve conducted these transactions dozens, if not hundreds, of times and know exactly what to do to ensure your experience is quick and smooth. It’s always recommended that you schedule a buyer’s consultation when you connect with an agent. During a consultation, both you and the agent will be able to set expectations and come up with a plan to help you aim for your goals.
Agents also save you money, thanks to their exceptional negotiating skills. Since home sellers will typically have their own agent representing them, you want to work with someone who has savvy negotiation skills and can advocate for you at every turn, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. Top-notch agents know how to bargain, especially if the house is in need of outstanding care such as repairs, upgrades, or other costly projects.
3. Agents have access to the MLS and a professional network
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Browsing thousands of homes is a daunting task on its own, but it doesn’t have to be. Licensed real estate agents have access to the MLS, or multiple listing service. An MLS is an online database that allows agents to list and browse dozens of properties through a single website. The MLS allows you to filter properties by size, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, number of stories, and other defining features, such as pools, patios, and more. It also facilitates communication between agents without having to meet in person, which is useful when you’re looking to move to a new state.
Real estate agents build extensive networks throughout their careers, given that real estate is a people-oriented job. Success depends not only on skill but also on the people you know. Agents know a variety of brokers, contractors, and other agents that may be beneficial to your needs; don’t be afraid to ask them about the connections they have. They’ll also get you in contact with the best home inspectors, appraisers, real estate attorneys, and other professionals.
4. Agents are driven by high standards and success
Every real estate agent upholds the Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice, updated yearly by the National Association of Realtors. These standards motivate agents to provide exceptional service to their clients and secure the best possible deal in a transaction. Your success is their success – a dependable agent will always prioritize your wants and needs. Great agents should be self-motivated, determined, and problem solvers who don’t shy away from the occasional bump in the road.
5. Agents are familiar with the area
Real estate agents are often residents of the area where you’re hunting for homes. As a result, they know the area and the surrounding region, allowing them to better fulfill your needs. For example, if you want to live close to the best schools, they’ll be able to suggest the nearest homes available. They’re also familiar with the climate, community events and attractions, and local ordinances and rules in case you’re interested in home renovation projects.
6. Agents understand the legalities and paperwork
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Pouring over paperwork is frustrating and stressful for the average person, but you don’t have to trouble yourself with the fine print as long as you have a reliable real estate agent on your side. An agent reads the fine print so you don’t have to, and they will always keep you apprised of any legal concerns. For example, if your dream home is part of a private community, your agent will guide you through the application process and inform you of the community’s rules and standards. The same goes for any homeowner association you might have to join.
7. Agents come at no cost to you!
The best part – you don’t have to pay a single dollar to enlist the help of an agent in your home search. Any commission and fees are typically paid by the seller, leaving you to reap the benefits of a professional’s expertise without additional cost. Without a realtor, you might end up spending even more money since you won’t have the analytical skills needed to determine if a home’s listed price is fair or to come up with a solid negotiation strategy.
There’s no reason not to hire a real estate agent to assist you with buying a home. They won’t cost you anything, and they save you time, money, and stress. You won’t find a better ally elsewhere!
Looking for homes for sale in Oxnard? Get in touch with top-notch Oxnard real estate agent Eric Swartz of Coldwell Banker Realty. Eric is a specialist in beach and marina real estate in California and embodies the best qualities of an exceptional real estate agent. He is determined to help you find the beach home of your dreams for an amazing deal. Don’t delay—connect with Eric today!
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
