If you’ve recently decided you’re ready to become a homeowner, chances are you’re trying to figure out what to do first. Knowing where to start can feel overwhelming, but the good news is you don’t have to navigate all of that alone.
When it comes to buying a home, there are a lot of moving pieces. And that’s especially true in today’s housing market. The number of homes for sale is still low, and home prices and mortgage rates are still high. That combination can be tricky if you don’t have reliable expertise and a trusted Real Estate Agent on your side. That’s why the best place to start is connecting with a local real estate agent.
Agents Are the #1 Most Useful Source in the Buying Process
The latest annual report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) finds recent homebuyers agree the #1 most helpful source of information they had in the home buying process was a real estate agent. Let’s break down why.
How a Real Estate Agent Helps When You Buy a Home
When you think about a real estate agent, you may think of someone taking you on home showings and putting together the paperwork, but a great agent does so much more than that. It’s not just being the facilitator for your purchase but your guide through every step.
The visual below shows examples from that same NAR release of how an agent adds value. It includes the percentage of homebuyers in that report who highlighted each of these benefits:
Here’s a bit more context on how the survey results noted an agent continually helps buyers in these situations:
Helped Buyers Understand the Process:
Do you know the difference between an inspection and an appraisal, what each report tells you, and why they’re both important? Or that there are things you shouldn’t do after applying for a mortgage, like buying appliances or furniture? An agent knows all of these best practices and will share them with you so you don’t miss any critical steps by the time you get to the closing table.
Pointed Out Unnoticed Features or Faults with the Home:
A Real Estate agent also has a lot of experience evaluating homes. They’ve truly seen it all. They’ll be able to pinpoint some things you may not have noticed about the home that could help inform your decision or at least what repairs you ask for.
Many people are involved in real estate transactions:
A Real Estate agent has experience working with various professionals in your area, like home inspectors. And can help connect you with the pros you need for a successful experience.
Negotiated Better Contract Terms and Price:
Did something happen in the home inspection or with the appraisal? An agent will help you re-negotiate as needed to get the best terms. And the price is possible for you so you feel confident with your big purchase.
Improved Buyer’s Knowledge of the Search Area:
Moving to a new town and you’re not familiar with the area or staying nearby but don’t know which neighborhoods are most affordable. Either way, an agent knows the local area like the back of their hand and can help you find the perfect location for your needs.
Expanded Buyer’s Search Area:
Suppose you’re not finding anything you’re interested in within your initial search radius. In that case, an agent will know other neighborhoods nearby you should consider based on what you like, what amenities you want, and more.
If you’re looking to buy a home, don’t forget about the many ways an agent is essential to that process. Any hurdle that pops up, a negotiation that needs to take place, and more, your Real Estate agent will know how to handle it while they make sure to minimize your stress along the way. Let’s connect to tackle this together.