As the Buyer
1. An agent can help you customize your search to include only those properties that meet your criteria (i.e. location, price, size, etc.).

2. An agent will have access to local multiple listing services which will have listed the vast majority of homes in the desired area. Most of this information is not readily available to the general public.

3. An agent will help coordinate all aspects of the transaction. This includes preparing and presenting offers, setting up inspections, negotiations, paperwork, etc.

4. An agent will set up appointment times for home viewing. They are able to arrange many visits in an efficient manner allowing you to make the most of your valuable time.

5. The agent should be knowledgeable of the area and will help you negotiate a fair purchase price. They will present all offers for you and follow up with counter-offers and other negotiations.

As the Seller
1. An agent is familiar with the local real estate market and will help you price your home appropriately. They will help balance your desired marketing time with getting the highest possible sales price.

2. An agent will be able to place your listing on the local multiple listing service, instantly exposing your home to thousands of potential buyers.

3. An agent will help coordinate all aspects of the transaction. This includes replies to offers, counter-offers, negotiations, paperwork, etc.

4. An agent can provide helpful tips on preparing your home to sell.

5. As the seller, you pay for the listing agent commission (typically 4 to 6 percent),. This commission amount is sometimes negotiable and is usually well worth the money spent for the services offered and headaches that are saved.

Helpful Links*
Real Estate Terminology
MSN Home Advisor
Find a Real Estate Appraiser
Free, unsponsored raw consumer information reports

*These links are to third party websites. realestateagentsource provides these links simply as a service to users of this directory. realestateagentsource assumes no responsibility for any information or materials found on these sites.