Here's why you should always use a real estate agent

Do you really need to use an agent to buy or sell real estate? The answer is no, but you should. Here are just a few reasons why:

1. They have the resources to find what you’re looking for. Sure, online sites like Zillow and Trulia are great for browsing houses for sale in your area—but are they truly up-to-date? Realtors have access to a more in-depth and up-to-date listing database that even lists properties that are available but not actively advertised. In today’s crowded housing market, it’s important to view available properties as soon as you can—before other buyers make an offer. Plus, you don’t have time to spend all day looking for houses in your price range that meet your needs. But your agent does!
    
2. They have lots of connections. Can’t find what you’re looking for on the market? Realtors have their fingers on the pulse of the local housing market and often know of properties that will be coming soon. This is also helpful when you’re selling your home, as word-of-mouth from agent-to-agent can be a great way to find interested buyers. In fact, a study from the National Association of Realtors shows that 82 percent of real estate sales come from an agent’s previous client, referral, friend, family or contact.
    
3. They act as a trusted advisor. The home buying or selling process can be really tough, especially when you’re going through other important aspects of your life- like if you’re expecting a child or you’re going through a divorce. You have lots on your plate, which is why it’s great to have someone on your side whose sole job is to help make the process as easy as possible.
    
4. They know how to price your home. Your real estate agent knows and understands the local market, so it’s easier for them to set an accurate listing price for your home. They can also recommend repairs or quick enhancements that will help your home sell faster and for more money.
    
5. They also know how to market your home. Between listing your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), setting up open houses, sending postcards and creating flyers, your agent spends time and money creating marketing resources to help attract buyers to your home.
    
6. They’re experienced in handling inspections and negotiations. They’ve handled tons of negotiations and know how to handle demanding buyers and sellers. They will also help you read through the home inspectors' report and help negotiate based on what’s found in the report. They can request that the sellers fix an issue or pay for it to be fixed.  They have a thorough understanding of what requests are reasonable and what might be considered extreme.

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