Realtor®
A Realtor® is a licensed real estate agent and a member of the National Association of Realtors®, a real estate trade association Realtors® also belong to their state and local Boards of Realtors®. They have a wealth of resources at their disposal, including the Multiple Listing Service and continuing education. All association members agree to abide by a 17-article Code of Ethics and strive for the height of professionalism.
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent is licensed by the state to represent parties in the transfer of property. Every Realtor® is a real estate agent, but not every real estate agent is a professional Realtor®.
Listing Agent
A listing agent forms a legal relationship with the homeowner to sell the property and places the property in the Multiple Listing Service.
Buyer’s Agent
A Buyer’s agent is an agent hired by the Buyer. Generally, the Buyer broker is paid from the commission fee agreed to by the seller.
Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
The MLS is a database of properties listed for sale by Realtors® who are members of the local Board of Realtors®.
Information on an MLS property is available to thousands of Realtors®.
Commitment Is A Two-Way Street
Your Realtor® will make a commitment to spend valuable hours finding the right home for you: researching listings, previewing properties, visiting homes with you, and negotiating your contract. Honor that commitment by staying with the Realtor®, you’ve selected until you purchase your home. Be sure your Realtor® accompanies you in your first visit to all new homes and open houses, too.
The Advantages of working with only one Realtor® include:
- The Realtor® becomes familiar with your family’s needs.
- You develop better rapport and communication when working towards your goal with only one Realtor®.
- The Realtor® is more committed to you because you return that commitment.
- You avoid any uncomfortable situation arising from agent conflict.
Benefits from a Professional Realtor®
Congratulations on your decision to buy a home!
It’s a challenging project, and there are many ways a professional can help. Here are some of the many ways you may benefit from working with a Realtor.®
It Won’t Cost You A Penny!
The Realtor® who helps you buy a home is traditionally paid by the Seller.
Many More Home Choices
Your Realtor® has thousands of homes to choose from through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), so you’re more likely to find the home that’s just right for you and find it quicker. In fact, a majority of the homes for sale are listed by Realtors® and aren’t available to you unless you are working with a Realtor®
A Number Of Transactions “Fall Out”
Unfortunately, it’s true. Some transactions fall apart before closing. An experienced Realtor® may be able to resolve problems and see your transaction through to a successful closing.
Knowledge Of New Home Subdivisions
New home subdivisions will welcome you and your Realtor.® If you’re interested in buying a new home, take your agent with you on your first visit to each subdivision. Your professional Realtor® is an important source of information who can supply background on the builder, nearby subdivisions, and the local community.
It’s Major Investment
You use a professional for your legal, financial and health needs. Why gamble on what may be your biggest investment without a professional at your side?
Help With FSBO’s
If you consider a “For Sale By Owner,” take your Realtor® along to help negotiate the contract. The owner may not only agree to your terms but also agree to pay the agent’s commission.
Less Liability
You will have more protection from legal and financial liability, especially as real estate transactions become more complicated.
The Paperwork
Your experienced Realtor® will negotiate and prepare the purchase contract for you and assist you throughout the escrow process.