Why You Should Use a Real Estate Agent When You Buy a Home

If you’ve recently made the decision to embark on the journey of homeownership, you’re likely grappling with where to begin. It can be overwhelming to navigate this process on your own, but the reassuring news is that you don’t have to go through it solo.

The process of purchasing a home involves numerous intricate components, and this holds especially true in today’s real estate landscape. The inventory of available homes remains limited, and both home prices and mortgage rates continue to be elevated. Maneuvering through these challenges becomes much smoother when you have access to reliable expertise and the guidance of a trusted advisor. That’s why initiating your journey by connecting with a local real estate agent is the most prudent first step.

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 useful source of information they had in the home buying process was a real estate agent. Let’s break down why.

How an Agent Helps When You Buy a Home

When contemplating a real estate agent, the conventional image may involve envisioning someone who guides you through home showings and organizes paperwork. However, an exceptional agent goes beyond these basic tasks. They don’t merely serve as a facilitator for your property purchase; instead, they function as your guiding presence throughout each phase of the process.

The illustration below illustrates several instances from the NAR release, showcasing the diverse ways in which an agent contributes value. It outlines the percentage of homebuyers in the report who emphasized the significance of 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 Buyer’s Understand the Process: Do you know the difference between an inspection and an appraisal? Do you comprehend the insights each report provides and recognize their individual significance? Are you aware that certain actions, such as purchasing appliances or furniture, should be avoided after applying for a mortgage? A knowledgeable agent is well-versed in these crucial distinctions and practices. They ensure you are informed about such essential details, guiding you throughout the process to prevent overlooking key steps leading up to the closing table.
• Pointed Out Unnoticed Features or Faults with the Home: An agent brings extensive experience in assessing homes, having encountered a diverse range of situations. Their seasoned perspective allows them to identify aspects of a home that you might have overlooked, providing valuable insights to guide your decision-making process or influence the repairs you choose to request.
• Provided a Better List of Service Providers: Throughout a real estate transaction, numerous individuals play key roles. An agent possesses valuable experience collaborating with a variety of professionals in your locality, including home inspectors. They can assist you in connecting with the necessary experts, ensuring a seamless and successful experience.
• Negotiated Better Contract Terms and Price: Did something pop up in the home inspection or with the appraisal? An agent will help you re-negotiate as needed to get the best terms and price possible for you, so you feel confident with your big purchase.
• Improved Buyer’s Knowledge of the Search Area: Whether you’re relocating to an unfamiliar town or staying nearby but unsure about the most affordable neighborhoods, an agent is well-versed in the local area and can guide you to the ideal location that suits your needs.
• Expanded Buyer’s Search Area: In the event that your initial search radius yields no properties of interest, an agent can suggest alternative neighborhoods nearby that align with your preferences, desired amenities, and other criteria.

Bottom Line

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 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.