Do I Need a REALTOR?

With all the information about homes available on the internet, the question has to be "Do I really need a REALTOR"? Many of today's buyers start their search on the internet and research the buying process. They go to various web sites and find several homes that they like and can afford. They may even drive by the homes and call the agent that has the home listed. Showing home is only a small part of what a REALTOR does.

Finding the right home is only the first step in the process of buying a home. Once the home is located, then the process of negotiating a price and terms takes place. This may reguire several rounds of negotiating and as a buyer, you want to make sure that you have a professional opinion as to the price and what you should ask for. Once a contract is acceptable to both parties, then comes the process of inspections to make sure the house is in the condition that you thought it was. This can actually lead to another round of negotiations if some problems are found. Once all the inspections are done and acceptable, then the process of finalizing the loan, coordinating with the seller to make sure he is moved out and the house is left in good condition and the actual closing process all take place.

REALTORS are well trained in the negotiating process and have been through the inspections and closing process many times and know exactly what to expect. This is where a good well organized REALTOR can make the buying process a pleasant experience rather than a nightmare.