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LIBRARY
"What Services Does A
Realtor Provide?"
By Thomas Ervin
Thomas Ervin is a nationally
syndicated real estate columnist.
Homeowners sometimes wonder if they would be dollars
ahead by selling their house themselves and saving the fees that are
paid to a Realtor. People with a sales background in some other field
are particularly tempted to do it on their own. Twenty years ago, when
things were much simpler, some people did have success selling their
houses themselves. Today, we face a much more complicated world in every
endeavor including home sales. Here are some of the services that a Realtor
provides:
PRICING KNOWLEDGE
It is not easy to determine the proper asking price. Realtors now have
computer terminals in their offices that notify them of new listings,
recent sales, and price changes as they occur. This vital information
reflects the current market in your area as it really is. After making
many comparisons between your home and like properties, your Realtor can
recommend an asking price that is competitive with similar homes on the
market. After the house is listed, periodic checks can be made into the
computer system to assure you that your price does keep pace with
ever-changing market conditions.
MARKETING EXPERIENCE
Because the sale of your home profoundly affects your financial
well-being, it is no undertaking for an amateur. It is best to get the
help and advice of someone who is working in the real estate business
everyday. Realtors also possess selling tools not available to the
average homeowner. These include membership in a multiple listing
service, large advertising budgets, access to the transferee through
referral organizations and corporate relocation departments and home
financing expertise used to qualify buyers.
NEGOTIATING AND CLOSING ASSISTANCE
Handling an offer and counter-offer require the right touch. This is
only learned through experience. Once the offer is signed and accepted,
the job is still not complete. Now, the sale must be guided through
numerous closing procedures that involve financing, inspections,
conditions, legalities, and a myriad of details.
ADVICE:
Get the best price for your home by using the services of Realtor.
(Reprinted with permission from author)
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