A lot of people consider buying a home on their own, without using a real estate agent. With all the newspaper and internet listings, not to mention shelves of books describing how to buy a home without an agent, it is easy to assume you can do it on your own. A lot of people who have tried to do it themselves ended up regretting the decision because of the many complexities of buying a home, as well as the liability from overlooked items that can result in costing the buyer or seller potentially thousands of dollars.

The argument that not using an agent saves money is only valid if you can negotiate the price you want and not spend countless hours doing so. An agent spends a lot of time doing the necessary legal research, home hunting and driving all around town. Utilizing the expertise of an agent is a wise decidion to make if you are not able to spend a similar amount of time. A state licensed real estate agent is good but a Realtor, licensed by the National Association of Realtors, is ideal. Realtors subscibe to a stricter code of ethics and have specialized training by virtue of their national designation.

List of specialty services an agent provides:

Determining Buying Power: A good agent can connect you with lenders qualified to meet your specific financial needs and help you determine your range.

Access to Additional Properties: Not every house for sale is actively being advertised. An agent has the resources to help you find all available properties.

Powerful Negotiaion Skills: There are many laws surrounding real estate transactions. Many important details can be easily missed when negotiating. An agent is specially trained to negotiate and give advice to the best options available. A purchase agreement completed without an agent can cost a lot of maney or end the entire deal.

Broad Understanding of the Process: Having been through numberous sales experiences, an agent has a better grasp on the entire process of buying a home. They are better able to anticipate potential problems and work proactively to solve them.

Seeing the Potential in a Home: Sometimes a house can look bad but have lots of potential. Likewise, a house can look nice but contain hidden faults. An experieced agent has seen both and can help you figure out which you are looking at.

Time Dedicated to You: If you agree to work solely with them, your agent will tirelessly help you search for a home.

Confidence at Closing: There is a lot going on at closing. Your real estate agent is the best friend you can have at the cloing when papers are exchanged and there is a lot of confusion.