Buying a home?

View an article the association provided to the Highland Villager on how to pick the right REALTOR® for your needs.

Prepare to buy a home:  helpful articles brought to you by Realty Times.

• Values of remodeling projects
• Values of housing characteristics
• Tips for Buying in a Tight Market
• Questions Every Buyer Should Ask 
• Top Tips for First Time Buyers
• Tips for First-Time Buyers:  Part II
• Ten Reasons Why Buyers Should Hire a REALTOR

There are many advantages of having a licensed REALTOR® represent you:

• A REALTOR®, in addition to knowing the local money market, also can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when you apply for a loan.
• A REALTOR® can help you determine how much home you can afford, and often can suggest ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods.
• A REALTOR® is already familiar with current real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, and may be aware of local zoning changes that could affect your decision.
• A REALTOR® can usually research your housing needs in advance through a Multiple Listing Service, even if you are relocating to another city.
• A REALTOR® can help familiarize you with the closing process by explaining it in advance.
• A REALTOR® shows you only those homes best suited to your needs:  size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools, transportation, shopping, and other personal preferences.
• A REALTOR® often can suggest simple, imaginative changes that could make a home more suitable for you and improve its utility and value.
• A REALTOR®, though generally acting as an agent for the property owner, is bound and obligated by the Code of Ethics to give fair treatment to all parties in the transaction.
• A REALTOR® is sensitive to the importance you place on this major commitment you are about to make.