Hiring a real estate agent to assist you in the buying or selling of real property is an intelligent decision for many reasons. Let’s face it, being a FSBO (For Sale by Owner) seems deliciously attractive because most sellers think they will save that very large commission which could be sitting gaining interest (not very much these days) in your bank account. So ask yourself these questions:

·      Am I available to show my home whenever prospective buyers are available, such as during work hours?
·      Do I have an understanding of the intricate complexities surrounding today’s transactions such as the appraisal process or how to deal with a home inspection that turns up issues?
·      Is my buyer pre-approved? Pre-approved for what you may ask…
·      How will I respond when they don’t like my new $30,000 kitchen that was installed 2 months ago? How could they NOT like it?
·      Radon…I don’t know if I have a Radon problem…I bought my home 40 years ago…what is Radon anyway?

The pros and cons could go on and on but the bottom line is  SELLING A HOME IS A FULL-TIME JOB. The reasons to hire a Real Estate Agent are multi-fold.

·      Real Estate Agents (REA) are well educated in and experienced with the sales process in its entirety.
·      REA’s understand and implement all mandatory disclosures and appropriate paperwork surrounding the transaction in today’s heavily regulated environment.
·      REA’s have a strong grasp on todays’ real estate market and values, which is invaluable when determining and setting the asking price of a listing. This is also extremely beneficial when deciding on a dollar amount when making an offer to purchase. An REA            can show appropriate comparable properties to a buyer who can then make an educated decision as to the price they are comfortable offering.
·      REA’s can act as a filter or buffer during negotiations with all parties involved.
·      REA’s are effective in explaining what each step means in the real estate process and what your time line is. Timing is crucial!
·      Finally and most important, when you hire a Real Estate Agent, you enter in a relationship of trust. This is called a Fiduciary Relationship and typically relates to assets, money or property. A Real Estate Agent is required to offer the highest standard of care and loyal treatment to their client. A client can expect :

o   Obedience
o   Loyalty
o   Disclosure
o   Confidentiality
o   Accounting for funds
o   Reasonable care and skill

When the time comes to decide if you need or shall we say want to hire a Real Estate Agent, please weigh the pros and cons and ultimately how this will affect your personal scenario. If you are selling a property, wide spread exposure over multiple modalities is imperative for proper marketing. If you are looking to buy a property, make sure you know your options. A Real Estate Agent is your guide through the entire real estate transaction process from offer to closing. They will explain and decipher each step before it happens making sure each detail is accounted for no matter whether you are buying or selling.