What does a REALTOR® do?

What does a REALTOR® do? Many people do not really understand what a REALTOR® does.

A REALTOR® can be loosely compared to a Teacher. Teachers are licensed by the state. Their credentials are reviewed to make sure they are qualified to teach certain classes. They are required to take additional courses to stay current. Teachers chose their job because they want to educate, help and protect students.

North Carolina REALTORS® are licensed and regulated by the state government. The North Carolina Real Estate Commission sets yearly update training; monitors continuing education; and reviews transactions and complaints to ensure the public is not harmed (like covering up facts that you need to know, discrimination, etc.).

REALTORS® are constantly researching, training and retraining to stay on top of changes. If your goal is to refinance, remodel, reduce your insurance, or whatever there are specific things that need to be done. Make sure to ask questions so that we can help you avoid headaches and problems. This help is free and the information is useless if we don’t use it to help people.

So now you ask, "If all of that help is provided for free how do REALTORS® make money?"

When you are buying or selling your home you “hire” a REALTOR® to educate, provide guidance and make sure everything goes as smooth as possible. I give you advice and straight talk education to allow you to make informed decisions. You are the boss, you own the property and I follow your instructions.

I get “paid” on commission. Commission means that I only get paid when the home is bought or sold. The commission is set up front and is normally either a flat fee or a percentage of the sales price.

What does a REALTOR® do? Help you make good decisions and accomplish your goals so you save time, money, and headaches!

(Donnie Worley is a licensed REALTOR® with RE/MAX Real Estate Service. He is a husband and father living in Sanford, NC and serves Lee, Harnett, Chatham and Moore counties. If you have any questions or comments send them to donnieworley@ymail.com or call/text 919-478-4967.)