What is a REALTOR® and why should I use one?
Only real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR) can call themselves REALTORS®. All REALTORS® adhere to NAR's strict Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. That's why all real estate licensees are NOT the same.
Dedicated to serving America's property owners at both local and national levels, the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, The Voice for Real Estate®, is the largest professional association at over one million members strong. So, whether you're buying or selling a home – it pays to work with a REALTOR®. Look for the REALTOR® logo when choosing your real estate agent.
How You Profit by Working With a REALTOR®
- Compiling information about your home in preparation for the listing. This information can include your home's square footage, type of heating and cooling, proximity to schools, and so on.
- Estimate your property's value, taking into account comparable sales in your area. This is done in order to help you establish the asking price.
- Preparing, coordinating, and paying for advertising and marketing efforts for your home. This can include putting advertisements in the paper, conducting open houses, and placing a sign in front of the home.
- Screening prospective buyers so that only qualified buyers with serious intentions are shown your home.
- Listing the property on the MLS (multiple listing service) and working with other REALTORS® to let the maximum number of qualified buyers to see your property.
- Writing offers, placing the buyer's deposit in escrow, and taking care of other necessary documentation such as title reports.
- Advising you on aspects of the sales contract and dealing with the buyer on various elements you may want to negotiate. This includes negotiating with the buyers on price, if necessary, in an effort to obtain the full value for your home.
- Helping buyers to locate financing, arrange for home inspections and an appraisal, and other details in preparation for the closing.
- Accompanying you to the closing or attending in your place.