Real Estate Matters
It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, as Fred Rogers of “Mr. Rogers’ fame coined the phrase.
But finding that neighborhood to call home includes many factors and difficult decisions in the homebuying process.
From the location and number of bedrooms, to convenience to work, relatives and friends; there are so many choices to make. Hot topics also include the school system and proximity to higher education, whether it should be a condo, residential single-family, 55-plus or a home with multiple acres and a pool, with well water or septic, curbs and sidewalks or not; checking the boxes that you want checked can be tough.
Fortunately, help is on the way with assistance of a real estate professional, especially those that have attained Realtor status.
Now more than ever, the value and importance of hiring a professional real estate agent is a necessity.
Recently mandated procedures in real estate, that went into effect on Aug. 17, 2024, require all sellers to fill out and provide seller disclosure forms on the property they are selling. A copy of the form must be provided by sellers to potential buyers when entering into an agreement to sell their home.
In addition, when you ask to view a property with a real estate agent, the agent must ask if you have a buyer/broker agreement in writing with any other agent. If not, the real estate agent must obtain a written buyer/broker agreement from you before showing the property. This is required and essential in establishing the business relationship you will have with the agent going forward.
For buyers, the agreement outlines the obligations, fiduciary duties and responsibilities of care and loyalty to you, in assisting you with finding your new home. It also establishes the manner and amount of compensation (commission) that will be paid to the real estate agent’s agency, either by the buyer, the seller, or included in any offer to purchase the home.
Here are more good reasons and benefits of hiring a real estate agent.
Real estate agents are your trusted advocates in the buying process. According to the National Association of Realtors, about 90% of all homebuyers and sellers make their real estate transactions through a real estate agent.
For licensed agents achieve the designation of Realtor they, along with their broker of record and real estate office, must belong to their local, state and National Association of Realtors. A Realtor is held to a higher standard of practice with requirements for continuing education and a strict code of ethics.
Real estate agents are licensed with the state and educated to assist buyers and sellers in the homebuying and selling process. Agents must have their license with, and are only paid by and through their broker of record, the owner/broker of the real estate agency where they hold their license.
Only after obtaining additional years of education, multiple transactions, and full-time real estate experience may some agents become licensed associate brokers or real estate brokers. Many years of continuing education, dedication and knowledge are required to maintain a real estate license and have a professional, successful career in real estate and service to the community.
Realtors provide these and many other qualities to assist in the homebuying process.
Your agent is a well-trained, strong negotiator who has the skills and the knowledge to get you the home you want, helping you find and guide you in making the best choice in a home for you and your family that you will enjoy for many years to come.
Happy house hunting, everyone, and make sure to get out and enjoy everything our Shore Local has to offer.
For More Real Estate Questions, Information and Advice Contact Elisa Jo Eagan “The Real Estate Godmother” (609)703-0432 and Remember…”There’s No Place Like Owning Your Own Home!”
