Step 2: Get a Realtor
10 Steps to Home Ownership
More than 2 million people in the United States have earned real estate licenses. However, real estate is a tough business with a steep dropout rate, and the result is that only a small percentage of those with licenses actively help buyers and sellers.
The National Association of REALTORSŪ (NAR) includes 1 million brokers and salespeople, individuals bound together with a strong Code of Ethics, extensive training opportunities and a wealth of community information. NAR members are routinely active in PTAs, local government committees and a variety of neighborhood organizations. Being actively involved in community affairs provides REALTORSŪ with a better understanding of the area in which they are selling.
Why?
Buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. At first it might seem that by checking local picture books or online sites you could quickly find the right home at the right price.
But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties -- even two identical models on the same street -- are precisely and exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. Also, no two transactions are alike.
In this maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and much more. Those professionals are the local REALTORSŪ who serve your area.
How do you choose?
In every community you're likely to find a number of realty brokerages. Because there is heated competition, local REALTORSŪ must fight hard to succeed in your community.
The best place to find a local REALTORŪ is from REALTOR.com'sŪ extensive listing of community professionals and properties. Other sources include open houses, local advertising, Web sites, referrals from other REALTORSŪ, recommendations from neighbors and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs. The experiences and recommendations of past clients can be invaluable.
In many cases buyers will interview several REALTORSŪ before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as training, experience, representation and professional certifications.
What should you expect when you work with a REALTORŪ?
Once you select a REALTORŪ you will want to establish a proper business relationship. You likely know that some REALTORSŪ represent sellers while others represent buyers. Each REALTORŪ will explain the options available, describe how he or she typically works with individuals and provide you with complete agency disclosures (the ins and outs of your relationship with the agent) as required in your state.
Once hired for the job, the REALTORŪ will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to a given situation. Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace REALTORSŪ will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process.
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