Top 10 Reasons to Use a Real Estate Agent

by Brandon Cornett

“Do I need a real estate agent when buying my first home, or can I handle it myself?” This is a common question among first-time home buyers. It’s also an easy question to answer, and you’ll understand why by the time you finish this article.

Let me start by saying yes, you should definitely seek the help of a licensed real estate agent when buying your first home. There are dozens of reasons for this. Let’s talk about some of the most important reasons…

Why You Should Use an Agent

1. Your first home will likely be the largest purchase of your life, up to that point at least. With so much money on the line, it only makes sense to have professional guidance.
2. In most states, the sellers pay the agent’s commission (out of the proceeds they make from the sale). In these scenarios, you get the benefit of expert advice without paying out of pocket.
3. A veteran agent can help you find the kind of home that meets all of your needs, and can save you a lot of time in the process.
4. In addition to helping you find a home, your agent can match you with the best neighborhood for your needs.
5. Agents have a trained eye and will often see things that you overlook. They can point out all of the pros and cons of a particular house and neighborhood.
6. Your agent will help you evaluate the seller’s asking price by analyzing recent sales in the same area. This is the key to making a smart offer on the home.
7. When you make an offer, you will need to include certain contingencies to protect yourself. For example, you should make the offer contingent on a successful home inspection. Your agent can explain these contingencies and help you include the right ones.
8. A good agent will educate you during every step of the home buying process. Instead of making decisions for you, your real estate agent will give you the information you need to make a smart decision of your own.
9. Your agent will keep you on track through the entire transaction, from house hunting all the way to the final closing process. He or she will help you avoid problems that can delay the process.
10. A veteran real estate agent will usually have a network of contacts in related fields. This is a good way to find a home inspector, a local lender, etc.

These are not the only reasons to use a real estate agent when buying your first home. But they are some of the biggest and best reasons. After reading this information, you’ll probably agree that it makes sense to have professional help. Buying a home is a major financial undertaking, and having expert guidance along the way is the key to success.

© 2009, Cornett Communications.

About the Author: Brandon Cornett is a consumer advocate and publisher of the Home Buying Institute. You can reach the author at www.CornettCommunications.com.