Why do I need a real estate agent?
There are numerous reasons why you should hire a real estate agent. It’s a great idea actually. A real estate agent, who is a good negotiator, can cover his entire commission. This automatically eliminates the seller’s primary reason for not using a real estate agent – to save on commission.
Real estate agents are skilled negotiators and when you get a good negotiator chances are he will be able to cover his entire commission. Good negotiation skills are acquired through training and experience. Agents view transactions with rationality, and without emotional attachments. They look after their client’s interests. They can help negotiate price, inclusion or exclusion of repairs, financing, inspections and investigations, among others. There are a lot of negotiations taking place in selling and buying a house, and an agent is equipped with the right skills for this task.
A real estate agent will save you time. He has the educational background and experience needed for the job. You save your time on research, phone calls, and leg work.
He can help you set a price. Agents will help buyers and sellers set the right price for the property. He can provide you with market information, financing, and the terms and conditions of competing properties. This will help you sell your property at the best price.
He knows the neighborhood. He makes it his business to know the community. He knows where you can find information on utilities, zoning, schools, churches, fitness clubs, etc… He can provide you with information on population and social demographics. You will definitely want to know if the neighborhood is the right fit for you, and if the property will have a resale value should you want to sell it in the future.
He has an established network. A real estate agent networks with other professionals who provide services that you may need when you’re buying or selling a property. He can give you a list of references to help you find companies or people for the service. He also markets your property to other real estate agents and the public.
He is available to help after closing the sale. Sometimes, in the excitement of closing a sale things can get overlooked, and surface months after the sale has been finalized. An example would be mixed up invoices. Good agents will be available to help resolve these concerns, and won’t leave you in the dark to figure it out by yourself.
So when you are thinking of buying or selling your property, consider hiring a real estate agent. He will save you time, headaches and maybe, if he is a good negotiator – he can save you money.*