Not all real estate practitioners are Realtors. The term is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional that has taken steps to become a member of the National Association of Realtors. It also signifies that the agent subscribes to the strict code of ethics of the Association. A Realtor can do a lot:

You’ll have an expert to guide you through the buying process. Buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, settlement statements, and a myriad of other paperwork and requirements. A knowledgeable expert will handle these, prepare you for the best deal, and avoid costly delays and mistakes. A Realtor is already familiar with the current real estate values, taxes, costs, and municipal services that apply to your situation. In addition, a Realtor can even help you through the process of applying for a loan.

You’ll get objective information and opinions. A Realtor can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more, as well as objective information about each property you look at. A Realtor will be able to help you answer both whether the property will provide the environment you want for a home or investment, and whether the property will have the resale value you want when you’re ready to sell.

Find the best property you can. Not all properties are actively advertised on the market. You Realtor can find all available properties so you can really pick the one that’s best for you. Your Realtor will show you only the properties best suited to your needs, taking into account such things as size, style, features, location, schools, transportation, shopping, and whatever else you might specify.

We have negotiating experience, and that’s a great benefit to have on your side. The number of negotiating factors is large, including (but certainly not limited to) price, financing, terms, dates, repairs, furnishings, and equipment. In addition, the purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete inspections and investigations of the property. Your Realtor can advise you about which inspections and investigations are recommended and required.

Real estate means referrals. Many homes do not sell due to just advertising alone. A large share of real estate sales come as a result of an agent’s contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, and family. Having a Realtor means instantly expanding your network.

Real estate has its own language. While I do provide a handy glossary of real estate terms, the language goes much deeper. If you don’t know a CMA from a PUD, you can understand why it is important to work with a professional who is immersed in the field every day.

Realtors have done it before. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. That’s why I make a constant effort to continue my real estate education whenever possible. A Realtor will handle hundreds of real estate transactions over their career. Having an expert on your side is critical.

Buying and selling homes is emotional. A home is not just walls, appliances, and a roof – a home symbolizes family, rest, comfort, memories, and security. Because of this, buying or selling a home can be a very emotional process. Since it’s usually the biggest purchase that most people ever make, it’s important to have an objective third party that is looking out for you. A Realtor will do all the busy work so you can stay focused on the issues important to you.

Ethics. Every member of the National Association of Realtors makes a commitment to adhere to a strict code of ethics, based on professionalism and protection of the public. Every Realtor is required to know and act upon this code, and it’s mandatory for us to complete a refresher course every four years. With a Realtor, you can expect nothing but honest and ethical treatment in all aspects of the process – not only to yourself, but to every party involved in the transaction.