Author:  Yolanda J. Ash

All real estate agents are bound by law to deal fairly and ethically with both Buyer and Seller.  However, and very importantly, if you have not entered into an Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Agreement with an agent, prior to viewing homes, then even though an agent may drive you around showing you hundreds of properties, the agent is legally required to represent the interest of the Seller, who pays the agent’s commission.

Brokers and agents can provide you with every service connected with your home search. Real estate brokers and their agents can provide you with invaluable and expert advice beginning in the early stages of your home search through the careful monitoring of your settlement.  They can guide you through the confusing and often frightening escrow as well as putting you in contact with various vendors such as appraisers, surveyors, mortgage lenders, inspectors, and cleaning services.

Should you decide to employ the services of a real estate agent, be certain to enter into an exclusive brokerage agreement prior to looking for homes.  By doing this, you insure that the agent you are working with is legally working for you and your interests in the home buying process. The list of benefits from working with a real estate agent far outweigh that of not working with one.  Specifically, a real estate agent can provide you with services such as:

  1. Helping you set up a plan of action for realizing your dream of home ownership
  2. Offer you information which will assist you in analyzing your needs and finances
  3. Provide you with information on the current housing market
  4. Assist you in locating homes available within your price range and desires
  5. Put you in contact with lenders and other financing institutions
  6. Give you information on special down payment assistance programs and other mortgage programs
  7. Guide you through the intricacies of making and presenting an offer
  8. Walk you through the entire process of settlement

The decision to go from renting to homeownership is a big step.  For most, the purchase of a home is perhaps the largest financial commitment they will make in life.  Do not treat your choice of a real estate agent lightly.  There are countless people who wish they had utilized the services of a professional, knowledgeable, experienced real estate agent.  There are lots of nightmares and troubles an unassuming home buyer can find themselves dealing with should they not choose an agent carefully, or should they choose to go it alone.

Prior to signing your name on any dotted line, do your research.  Know who you have working with you and for you.  Perhaps the best way to hire an agent is to ask friends and family members about the agent they used.  If they were satisfied with the service they received, then chances are, so will you.  If you decide to seek out an agent on your own, do your research, ask questions, then ask more questions. Every agent conducts business differently, however, minimally, a great realtor will be open and honest with you about the types of services they are able to provide you with.

Once you are comfortable with an agent, be certain to enter into an exclusive buyers agreement early on in your relationship.  This will offer you added assurance that your home buying adventure will be a great one!

HOW IS HOME OWNERSHIP THE KEY TO FINANCIAL SECURITY?

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Posted by on February 15, 2010 in Real Estate, Uncategorized.

2 Comments

About Yolanda J. Ash

I have been writing in some form or fashion all of my life. I have written technical journals, 501(c)(3) articles of incorporation, resumes, newsletters, web content, short stories, you name it, I've written it. I have had several articles published, and I am presently working on several manuscripts for publishing and public scrutiny and enjoyment. One day, I would love to try my hand at script and screen writing and books for children. I have only recently begun to pursue my writing seriously and as a legitimate means of earning a living. My greatest drive and inspiration for doing such is my beautiful, intelligent, inquisitive little muse...my daughter. I have beguiled numerous opportunities for earning money. Writing is by far, the only one that brings me the joy and satisfaction I experience doing it, as well as the blessed chance to be a stay at home Mother to witness and enjoy my daughter's daily growth and development.

2 Responses

  1. Yolanda J. Ash says:
    February 15, 2010 at 5:46 PM

    Hi E. Barru. Glad I could provide you with useful information…that is my goal. If you are in the Atlanta area, I would love to assist you in the purchase of your home. Visit here: http://www.royalestatesrealtyboutique.biz/contact.php and I will contact you.

    Warmest regards and happy house hunting!!

  2. E. Barru says:
    February 15, 2010 at 5:38 PM

    Very helpful information! I am getting ready to buy my first home and this was truly what I needed. I have learned a lot from visiting your site. Thank you!