Some people choose to forgo hiring a real estate agent when buying a home. They may think that they can find a home by browsing through online listings. An agent makes the process less frustrating and more manageable. Here are the top five reasons to partner with a real estate agent when buying a home.
1. Find New Properties Fast
Many of the online home listing sites don’t show the most current listings, so it may take a while before a new home shows up on the site. If you work with a real estate agent when buying a home, they can alert you to available homes as soon as they find out about them through their network.
You will get notified of price drops and properties that are re-listed. During a seller’s market, which is when there are more buyers than homes for sale, home buying can be very competitive. It is important to have the most up-to-date information quickly.
2. View the Home and Access the Property
If you use a real estate agent when buying a home, you have someone who will call and make an appointment for you to see the property. The agent can coordinate a time that works for both parties and then meet you at the house.
Most sellers install electronic lockboxes on their front door and give agents access, which leaves the house secure but available for viewing. This makes it convenient for the seller and buyer. If you use a real estate agent when buying a home, the viewing process is easy, comfortable, and neutral.
3. A Real Estate Agent Will Help Draft the Contract When Buying a Home
When you have found a house that you want to buy, you will need to come up with an offer. Working with a real estate agent when buying a home gives you a resource that will help you craft an appropriate offer and contract.
The agreement will make sure the buyer and seller have a good understanding of what each party is expected to do. It will cover the familiar details, such as the price and closing date, but the agent’s contract will go over who is to pay for what and when. It will also include contingencies, like the home inspection.
4. Inspections
Once you are under contract, it’s time for the home inspection. When you choose to work with a real estate agent when buying a home, he or she will also assist with this process.
The agent will help you narrow down a list of inspectors. Next, they can help you set appointments and go over the inspection report. If problems are found in the inspection, the agent will know whether they are worth negotiations.
5. Use A Real Estate Agent When Buying a Home to Make Closing Easier
As you near the closing date, there will be a lot of loose ends to tie up. The escrow officer will schedule all parties to come in for the official signing. Your agent will work with the escrow company to make sure all the invoices, bills, and credits are applied to your closing statement.
During all of this, you will want to get ready to take over the new house. Your agent can give you a list of local utilities that are available at the new home. It is a good idea to contact them ahead of time so you can establish an account or put down any needed deposits. When it is all said and done, the agent will be there to hand you the keys to your new home.
AmeriSpec Inspection Services provides home inspection services to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.