5 Reasons to Choose a Real Estate Agent When Buying or Selling a Home
Both buyers and sellers can benefit significantly from the help of a real estate agent. Between responding to questions and arranging open house viewings, a good agent can save both parties tons of time. Additionally, agents often have a list of reputable home repair professionals, title companies, stagers, and other vendors to call upon. This is truly invaluable.
They Know the Market
Whether selling or buying, a real estate agent in Saint Paul, MN, can help you understand your local market. They can provide statistics like average home prices, current sales trends and more. They can also tell you which areas have the best schools or easiest access to public transportation. When interviewing potential agents, ask about their experience and if they specialize in your area of interest. You can also ask for references from previous clients to see their experiences working with them. This will give you an idea of their working style and how they communicate with clients. You’ll want to find an agent who is full-time and available to answer your questions when needed.
They Can Negotiate
If you’re buying a home, your agent can help negotiate a favorable deal for you and your family. That means a lower asking price and some concessions on your part.
Likewise, when selling your home, your agent will have experience guiding you through negotiations with potential buyers. This process includes comparative market analysis, negotiating contract terms, and facilitating inspections, appraisals, and other necessary documents for closing. Ask the agents you’re interviewing about their negotiating skills and past clients they’ve worked with. Also, find out their availability and preferred methods of communication. This information can give you insight into their working style and whether or not they can provide the support you need.
They Can Give You Advice
As a real estate agent, it’s part of their job to guide you through the legal processes involved in buying or selling property. They also know local zoning ordinances and other regulations that can affect how you use your home, like whether it’s permissible to turn the front parlor into a candle shop. Real estate agents can also help you find a house that fits your lifestyle. They can show you homes with specific features you’re looking for, including a pool, fenced-in yard or basement playroom. They may even have access to “off-market” properties not listed on MLS or property search websites. When choosing an agent, ask them about their experience and working style. How they answer can reveal their personality and their approach to real estate.
Also, with new technology tools that streamline processes and improve accuracy, some wonder whether AI technology, like Google Bard, will lead to increased competition among real estate agents. However, many believe this high-tech tool will benefit buyers and sellers by simplifying property searches and providing them with accurate data that helps them make informed decisions. So, how Google Bard is transforming real estate in Minnesota?
The ability to answer queries and provide relevant information quickly is a game-changer for real estate agents. Agents can provide more comprehensive listings for clients and help them make better decisions based on current market trends.
They Can Help You Get Preapproved for a Loan
Real estate agents often know mortgage lenders in the area or can make recommendations based on your home-buying goals. They can also help you shop around for rates and fees to find the best options for your situation. A good lender is a key part of the home-buying process because it helps determine what you can afford and shows that you’re a serious buyer. In some cases, sellers may prefer certain lenders. But you can still use the lender your Realtor recommends. You can find out who your agent works with by checking their licensing information online. You can also ask them to provide a list of references from previous clients. Lastly, real estate agents are familiar with legal documents like purchase contracts and seller disclosure forms, which can be confusing.
They Can Help You Find a Home
A real estate agent will be your advocate and fiduciary throughout the buying process. They will handle the paperwork, such as offer and counteroffer letters, inspections, and countless other forms involved in a real estate transaction. A good buyer’s agent will take the time to find properties that match your criteria, including things like location, neighborhood, and schools. They can also help you determine how much you can afford by analyzing local property values and home prices. Real estate agents often have professional connections to refer you to for help with movers, contractors, and other services. They may also have access to various homes for sale via the multiple listing service or MLS. If they do, this can save you time and frustration.
