by Pam Vogelsang
Most people think Real Estate Agents simply drive folks around, showing
houses. It seems simple enough and you may think you can find a house
yourself. However, an agent has many resources to assist you in your
search for your perfect castle. Sometimes the property you are seeking
is available but not actively advertised in the market. It will take
some investigation by your agent to find all available properties.
As you make your selection, your agent can provide local community
information on utilities, zoning. schools, etc. There are two important
things you'll want to know about your new home. First, will the property
provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will
the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?
You're ready to make an offer? Negotiating factors include, but aren't
limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and often
the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment.
The purchase agreement should also provide a period of time for you
to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property
before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise
you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or
required.
With a negotiated agreement in hand, it is time to complete the evaluation
of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include
inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof
condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your agent
can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do
most of these investigations and provide you with written reports.
You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the
property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in
confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to
most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements
(access rights) for utilities. Your agent, title company or attorney
can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date.
Your agent can help you in understanding different financing options
and in identifying qualified lenders.
Finally, there is the closing, or settlement, as it is known in different
parts of the country. Every area has its own unique customs. In some
areas, the title or escrow company will handle this process. In other
parts of the country, an attorney does it all. Again, your real estate
agent can guide you through this process and make sure everything
flows together smoothly.
Can you do it yourself? Sure. But a real estate agent can help you
do it better. Isn't your family worth it?
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 There
is a misconception that advertising sells real estate. Studies show
that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through
previous clients, referrals, friends and family, and personal contacts.
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