Do First Time Home Buyers Need Realtors?

First time homebuyers are in the exciting position of both choosing a home and making one the biggest investments in life. But are realtors necessary? I hear this question a lot from first time homebuyers. They wonder why they can’t just peruse open houses and visit new developments where realtors are just sitting there waiting. Well, that opens the first can of worms for first time homebuyers. Realtors usually work as either buyer’s agents or seller’s agents. That friendly realtor at the open house only represents the interests of her clients (the sellers.) That’s why I tell any first time homebuyer to team up with a professional realtor who knows the things that you don’t.

Tap Into Their Knowledge

Anybody can buy a house. But all the unknowns typically overwhelm a first time homebuyer. The great thing about working with a realtor is that you get an “instant guru” for all you questions from finding good schools, to how much less a seller might take, to “what is PMI again”? You will find that the mountains of paperwork go more smoothly if a realtor guides you through the purchase agreement. The legalities of buying a home are enormous, but competent realtors make sure you don’t skip the inspection, or spend all your time driving around an area that’s out of your price range.

But what about price range? One of the biggest concerns that new buyers have about hiring realtors is paying the commission. After all, is it really worth it to pay realtors when you could have that money available for your new home? Weigh this decision carefully. Don’t nickel and dime yourself out of competent advice. Especially if you have never navigated the paperwork and legalities of a real estate transaction, one of your smartest moves can be to include a realtor on your house hunting team.

Use the Services that Realtors Offers

Once you decide to work with a realtor, let them really work for you. Realtors can eliminate many homes based your requirements, so that you spend less time looking at inappropriate ones. List your desired amenities and priorities so that your realtor really knows what to look for. Good realtors listen. You shouldn’t have to tell him 4 times that a second bathroom is a must.

The best realtors will honor your time schedule and when you are available to look at sites. Realtors can also give valuable information about movers, local amenities and things to do, even local doctors if you’re new to town. Remember, in addition to having professional knowledge of the real estate game, your realtor is an area local. Ask lots of questions, and expect lots of information in return.

Where to Find Competent Realtors

Realtors are everywhere. Ask for referrals from people you trust. Interview potential realtors before making up your mind. Ask about their background, client load, experience and availability. Then grab you digital a camera and a notepad, call your chosen realtor, and have fun buying your fist home.

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