calumet paramaribo: 10 Steps to Owning Your First Home ? Step 2: Get a REALTOR?

by Rebecca Kroseberg

So you think real estate is some on the side, part time moneymaker job?

Well, for some agents it is. But for those of us that love this business, we take real estate very serious and make this our full time careers. It?s a tough business, especially in this economy. With one of the highest drop out rates, the real estate business retains only a small percentage of REALTORS? that actually end up representing buyers and sellers. Those of us that are serious about representing clients have to go through extensive legal and ethical training, as well as continuing education to ensure superior service. We are required to be professional experts in our field.

Why do I need a REALTOR??
Simply put ? would you write your own living will without consulting an attorney? Probably not. So why would you NOT want to work with a professional, who is trained and licensed to help you avoid the most common first time home buyer mistakes?

If you are reading this chances are you?re looking into buying a house in Charleston or the surrounding areas. Sure you can browse Realtor.com or check out Trulia on your own. However, buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. Are you aware of our different flood zones here in Charleston? Did you know that certain areas in Summerville are considered low to medium income areas and you could thus qualify for 100% financing? Are you ready to face a jungle of legal forms and contracts in order to turn your dreams into an address? Are you familiar with contractual contingencies, financing options, legal and closing costs, inspection requirements, CL-100s, etc.? Have I lost you yet??!

With this mumbo jumbo REALTOR? talk, it?s worth working with one to get expert representation and advice from somebody who knows the community and the contracts.

How do I choose a REALTOR??
How do you find the best real estate agent in Charleston? I say go with your gut. If you have called a REALTOR? and haven?t received a call back within a reasonable amount of time, move on. Even if this is supposedly a ?top producer?. This shows poor communication and follow up skills. Look for somebody who is responsive to communication and active on social media. I don?t mean somebody that has some random Facebook account. I?m talking an agent that posts content of value every day. As a first time home buyer, you are likely tech savvy. Don?t you want somebody on your level? Somebody who gets you? Other sources to find the right agent include referrals, open houses, or websites. Furthermore, past client testimonials can be invaluable. Curious for some? Read my testimonials here.

What Can I Expect When Working with a REALTOR??
Most importantly, make sure you and your REALTOR? click. You want a friendly yet professional business relationship. They should explain agency relationship to you right away (this is required by law!). Understand what the difference between a customer and a client is (hint: you can work with an agent who, in fact, still legally represents the seller NOT you). Be your own advocate and educate yourself to avoid costly rookie mistakes. You can also expect a few disclosures to fill out, as required by the state. Once hired to represent you, your REALTOR? should provide you with current market condition reports, neighborhood reports, financing help, lists of available properties, etc.

Words of Wisdom

Whoever you end up choosing, always make sure that you read all disclosures and contracts. Don?t let yourself be locked into a contract with an agent you don?t trust. Coldwell Banker United and I offer a Buyer Services Guarantee that ensures you receive excellent service from your initial home search to the time you get your new keys.

It?s called ?real? estate so expect me to keep it real. Good or bad. I always welcome comments, questions, and feedback (especially the funny kind). Thanks for reading and don?t forget to share!

NEXT WEEK?S BLOG POST:

10 Steps to Owning Your First Home ? Step 3: Get Your Pre-Approval On