I know, you can learn how to do anything online without ever having to leave your robe or fuzzy slippers, including buying and selling a house. It might be tempting to take on the process yourself to avoid commission fees, but with hundreds of thousands of dollars on the line, wouldn’t you like some experience on your side?
A real estate agent will have your back and make sure that you don’t make any mistakes with what is quite possibly the largest purchase you’ll ever make. So, don’t think of them as commission fees; think of them as commission guarantees! Here’s why you should never buy or sell without an agent on your side.
Real Estate Agents are Experts
How many times have you gone through the complicated home-buying process? How many home inspections have you attended? Mortgages brokered? Closing meeting attended? For most people, they’ll only have to go through this grueling business a couple of times in their lives. Real estate agents do it hundreds of times over the course of their careers. They know exactly what to look for, the steps to take, and pitfalls to avoid.
Buying and selling houses is all they do! And since computers still can’t think to give you advice on your unique situation, an agent is your best bet for expert homebuying/selling advice.
They Know Everyone
If you’ve ever spent time with a real estate agent, you know they like to talk. It’s just a part of the job. They spend most of their day talking to clients, other agents, and random people around town. But the upside of talking to everyone is that they know who to go to for every little problem.
Can’t find a lender? A real estate agent knows dozens of them. Having trouble getting a home appraisal? An agent could set that meeting up in twenty minutes. Not only do they know everyone, they also know which of them are best at their jobs. Agents are like a homebuying encyclopedia, Whitepages, and Yelp all rolled into one.
Agents Are Real Estate Bloodhounds
Looking for that perfect, luxurious condo at the prestigious Kukio Golf and Beach Club? I bet you won’t be able to find it on Zillow. But you know who could find it…?
Yes, there are thousands if not millions of listings online for you to browse. But real estate agents have access to even more listings! They even have access to listings that haven’t gone up for sale yet. Having an agent on your side might be the difference between getting a jump start on the perfect home or missing out by being late to the party.
Master Negotiators
Purchasing property is all about selling high and buying low. The only way to ensure that you’re getting a good deal is to have someone with experience sitting next to you at the negotiation table. Agents know the market. They know exactly how much houses are worth – and when they can score a few extra bucks out of the deal. If you buy or sell alone and get a bad deal, it might end up costing you more than the potential commission fees.
Find Your Perfect Home
In the scary, complicated world of real estate, don’t go at it alone. Having an agent on your side will ensure that the home of your dreams doesn’t end up as a nightmare. They’ll be able to find the perfect house, negotiate a price, and walk you through every step of the process without any additional headaches.
If you’re ready to start looking for your dream home in Hawaii, I’m ready to help. With more than 25 years of real estate experience, I’m sure we can find the perfect home for you. Give me a call at 808.209.6244 or send an email to RandyRipley808@gmail.com to begin your search today!
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.