Why work with a Realtor

Not all real estate practitioners are Realtors. The term Realtor is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Here are reasons why it pays to work with a Realtor.

1. You'll have an expert to guide you through the process. Buying or selling a home usually requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds and multipage settlement statements.

2. Get objective information and opinions. Realtors can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools and more. A professional will be able to help you answer these two important questions: Will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?

3. Find the best property out there. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your Realtors.

4. Benefit from their negotiating experience. There are many negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession and inclusion or exclusion of repairs, furnishings or equipment. In addition, the purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase.

5. Realtors have done it before. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you've done it before, laws and regulations change. Realtors, on the other hand, handle hundreds of real estate transactions over the course of their career.

6. Ethical treatment. Every member of the National Association of Realtors makes a commitment to adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a customer of a Realtor, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. It is mandatory for Realtors to take the code of ethics orientation, and they are also required to complete a refresher course every four years.

Brought to you through the partnership of the Southeast Missourian and the Cape Girardeau County Board of Realtors.