Working with a licensed pro to compare homes, negotiate an offer, and navigate myriad specifics and paperwork will save you time and ease your mind. Consider these points.<\/p>\n
1<\/strong><\/span> The best source for finding one? Friends who just bought or sold a house.<\/p>\n 2<\/strong><\/span> Who\u2019s a REALTOR\u00ae? A real estate pro who is a member of the National Association of Realtors and commits to the organization\u2019s code of ethics<\/p>\n 3<\/strong><\/span> Your agent can recommend other team members, such as the lender, inspector, and title company.<\/p>\n 4<\/strong><\/span> They\u2019re trained to compare homes, communicate promptly, and keep up with financing options.<\/p>\n 5<\/strong><\/span> Your agent can handle the arrangements if you find a \u201cfor sale by owner\u201d home.<\/p>\n 6<\/strong><\/span> Agents have access to a proprietary database of homes for sale known as a multiple listing service (MLS).<\/p>\n 7<\/strong><\/span> Agents know the pros and cons of your neighborhood<\/p>\n 8<\/strong><\/span> Moving out of town? A real estate agent where you live now can connect you with an agent in your new city.<\/p>\n 9<\/strong><\/span> You might be able to hire your agent as a property manager if you choose to rent rather than sell your house.<\/p>\n 10<\/strong><\/span> Bonus: your agent might also be a notary\u2014handy for future business paperwork.<\/p>\n 11<\/strong><\/span>They can recommend contractors and other home improvement pros.<\/p>\n 12<\/strong><\/span> The agent you choose looks out for your best interests.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n SOURCE: BETTER HOMES & GARDENS<\/em><\/strong>\u00ae <\/strong>MAY 2022 ISSUE <\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"