Many people are unaware that there is a difference between a real estate salesperson and a Realtor®.  Both are licensed through the state; however Realtors® are bound by a strict enforceable Code of Ethics with Standards of Practice.  Non-member licensed real estate agents are not bound by the same moral code of ethics.  Also the Realtor® association is committed to advancing the professional education of its members offering many classes and ways to advance the education and professionalism of its members.  As a buyer there are multiple reasons you should use a Realtor®, listed below are a few:

Commission is often included in the Sales Price - A buyer is often paying for a real estate associate whether you use one or not. If you are looking at properties that are listed with an agent, there is some kind of commission agreement that the seller has engaged in with a real estate agent.  This commission covers the buyer’s agent as well because most brokerages co-broke, they agree to pay a certain amount of the commission to the buyer’s agent who brings the buyer.    Some real estate companies may charge a buyer’s fee for limited services, but many companies work with buyers and receive payment upon closing from the commission that the seller agreed upon.  If the brokerage fee is included in the list price you are paying for a property, it is in your best interest to have an agent working on your side and helping answer your questions.

Answer Questions and Provide Resources – A home purchase is one of the largest transactions most people handle in their lives.  Every transaction is individual with multiple variables.  Your Realtor® can answer your questions along the way and help direct you and give you suggestions as to where to find resources such as a lender to provide financing, inspectors, insurance companies, title companies, surveyors, and any other professional resources you may need during your purchase process.

Assist in Selection Process – A Realtor® has access to the Multiple Listing Service to refine searches and provide you with the most current information on properties on the market.  He/she can also arrange showing appointments for you to see the homes.  Your real estate agent will provide objective professional opinions on the different properties and help acquire additional information that may be helpful to you in the decision making process.

Assist in Making an Offer – Once you have selected a property your real estate agent can help give you tips on ways to make your offer stronger and help you with negotiations.  You still have control over your offer, but you will have a professional to show you the different options that are available to you and help make sure that all the terms are acceptable to you and the seller.

Coordinate Closing Process and Beyond – A Realtor® can help the process through closing go smoothly.  They will coordinate with the parties involved in the transaction (Title Company, lender, buyer, seller, agents) to make sure that everyone has the paperwork and information they need.  They will make sure any inspections and repairs are completed in a timely manner in accordance with the contract and that all parties (inspectors, repair contractors, appraiser, surveyor) can gain access to the property.  Your Realtor® will review your HUD statement for accuracy prior to closing and go over all of the costs with you.