Working With an Experienced REALTOR®
When shopping for their first home people today have a wide array of options from home magazines, the internet, and local newspapers. It seems that information can be found in every form of media however getting the information on a property is only part of the home buying process and that’s where REALTORS® come into the picture.
Being a first time home buyer means understanding how much you can afford monthly, how much you can qualify for, finding the right property and also the right location. There are many steps that need to happen to go from making the decision to become a homeowner to having the keys to your new home. One reason why it makes sense to work with a licensed REALTOR® as a new homebuyer is because their fees are paid from the sellers proceeds so there is absolutely no charge to the buyer. Below I list several other reasons why working with a licensed REALTOR® is the smart way to go;
- You’ll have a professional to answer questions and guide you through the paperwork
- Have listings emailed to you regularly with specific features you are looking for
- REALTORS® can typically refer you to a mortgage specialist that can get you pre-qualified before looking for a home
- Have an experience negotiator on your side when making an offer for purchase
- Buying on your own will take more time than expected
Buying a home, whether it’s your first or fifth time can be a daunting task and potentially scary one to go at it alone. Just as you may be capable of changing the oil on your car or cutting your own hair, matters of this importance are usually best left to the professionals. If you are in the market to purchase a new home you can locate a REALTOR® through www.realtor.org. Be sure to also ask the REALTOR® questions so you feel comfortable that you’re working with the right individual and company. My last piece of advice is to get pre-qualified before looking for a home as far too often people make the mistake of trying to secure financing after an offer has been accepted just to find out that they may not qualify or qualify for as much as they need. Buying a home is a very emotional decision and there’s no need for the added stress.
Written by: Richard Salazar, Loan Advisor Development Manager at Royal United Mortgage LLC
Published: 4/8/2016