Why Should You Use a Real Estate Agent to Buy a Home

With access to information on the internet so readily available and in an era of the do-it-yourself attitude, why should you use a real estate agent to buy a home instead of doing it yourself?  There are numerous reasons why a professional is a better way to go with your real estate needs.  The following are just a few you should think about:

1. Experience and Knowledge - The right local real estate agent knows their Reno market like the back of their hand because they are constantly out in the field.  They most likely know more about particular neighborhoods than a lone buyer would ever have time to learn.  They also have access to information that a simple online listing or an open house may not supply.  This can be valuable to have when it comes time to negotiate a price on a Reno home you're interested in.
2. Paperwork - If you've bought a home before, you are aware of the volumes of paperwork this transaction can generate.  If you are new to the Reno homeownership game, just think of how much paperwork and time it took to buy a car...and then multiply that by a thousand.  Since a REALTOR® is well versed in what documents need to be signed and when they need to be submitted, they can help make your home buying experience go much more smoothly.
3. Professional Support Network - When you hire a Reno REALTOR®, not only do you get the agent, but you also have access to their support network that typically includes home inspectors, title companies, insurance agents and more that they can recommend for you.  Since this is their job, real estate agents learn quickly who they can trust for services and who to look out for.
4. The Art of Negotiation - If nothing else, negotiating a deal is why you should use a professional.  This is their bread and butter.  It is also probably the least fun aspect of buying a home.  Having someone on your side who knows how to negotiate a deal can work out in your best interest.
5. How Much a Home Costs, How Much a Home is Worth - Since a Reno REALTOR® views homes all over the Reno area every day, they can help you determine what is a good value in the price range you are looking for.  They know whether a home has been on the market for a long time and is prime to be reduced or if it has even been reduced recently, possibly indicating a seller who is really interested in negotiating a deal.  This experience is extremely valuable.

So, if you find yourself asking why you should use a real estate agent to buy a home instead of doing it yourself, the above reasons should answer that question pretty well.  If you are looking for a Reno home, please contact me and I'll be more than happy to help you.

Charlene Hamilton, Certified Distressed Property Expert, your Reno relocation specialist