Why use a
Realtor
Nearly eight out of ten American
consumers believe real estate brokers and sales
associates can show buyers a better selection of homes
than they can on their own, according to an independent
survey of the general public released by the National
Association of REALTORS®.
Seventy-eight percent of the general public believe real
estate professionals offer them a broader selection of
housing alternatives than they would otherwise receive.
Seventy-four percent agree using a real estate broker
saves time, and 70 percent agree real estate
professionals make buying or selling a home much easier.
In another independent survey of more than 1,000
buyers and sellers, most respondents (82 percent) were
very satisfied with their real estate brokers/sales
associates, and a majority (77 percent) of the sellers
felt the commission they paid their broker was money
well spent. The survey also found the majority of buyers
and sellers (64 percent) were satisfied with the amount
of time the process took, and most sellers (87 percent)
will use a real estate professional again next time they
sell their home.
Clearly these surveys point to the value of using the
services of a real estate professional in the home
buying and selling process. In a transaction that has
become increasingly complex with the evolution of new
financing twists and sales contract intricacies, the
real estate professional is often the glue holding all
parties and details together. REALTORS®
provide to customers and clients equal professional
service: in the sale or rental of housing in advertising
the sale or rental of housing in standing ready to enter
broker-client relationships in the providing of real
estate brokerage services. REALTORS®
subscribe to the policy that equal opportunity in the
acquisition of housing can best be accomplished through
leadership, example, education and the mutual
cooperation of the real estate industry and the public.
Not every real
estate licensee is a REALTOR®.
Unlike other real estate agents, a REALTOR®
is a member of the National, State, and Local
Associations of REALTORS®
and is bound by a strict code of ethics. Access to
quality continuing education programs helps them gain a
greater knowledge of the real estate business. By
working with a REALTOR®,
you are ensuring your transaction will be handled
professionally, and your rights in real estate
activities protected. Only a REALTOR®
can display the REALTOR®
logo, which is a federally registered mark licensed
exclusively to members of the National Association of
REALTORS®. This mark
represents a high standard of professional conduct in
serving the interests of customers and clients.
Individual REALTORS®
may work in some or all facets of a real estate
transaction, acting as seller's agents, buyer's agents,
dual agents or as transaction brokers. Once you are
familiar with these terms, you can find a REALTOR®
who will be able to provide the services you need to
complete a real estate transaction.
The decision
to buy or sell a home or property is one of the most
important ones you can make. Choosing a REALTOR®
is also an important decision.
A REALTOR® has the
interest, resources and dedication to guide you through
the process. They possess an unequaled knowledge of the
entire buying and selling process, from obtaining vital
information on current and future trends and on
legislation. to issues affecting property ownership.
In addition to knowing the local money market, a
REALTOR® can explain
alternative mortgage financing programs, and what
personal and financial data to bring with you when
applying for a loan. They determine in advance what you
can afford and show you only those properties meeting
your criteria.
Already familiar with current real estate values,
real estate taxes, utility costs, municipal services and
facilities, a REALTOR®
may also be able to respond to your questions about
local zoning changes which may affect your decision to
buy.
A REALTOR® can
provide a checklist to serve as a reminder of some
things you should be aware of in a real estate
transaction.
Your REALTOR® holds
all parties and details together so closing occurs
without any unforeseen complications.
Bob Latigona... is
your South Jersey Real Estate Professional!
http://www.latigona.com |