FAQs
Why should I/we use a real estate agent to sell my home?
A real estate agent is more than just a sales person. Agents act on the seller's behalf to provide advice and guidance throughout the transaction. Licensed real estate agents are required to follow certain criteria in how they represent clients that protects the sellers in the process. Because the sale of your home is such a great investment, and the monetary value is so high, protect your interests by using a trained professional to assist you.
Why should I/we use a real estate agent to buy a home?
For many of the same reasons you would use a real estate agent to sell a home, you should use one to buy as well. Finding a house to buy is much easier with the help of a professional who does this work as a full time career and has knowledge of the area you are looking in. Also, real estate professionals have extensive training in contract work and will prevent mistakes in the purchase agreement that could lead to either a loss of a transaction or the loss of money.
What is the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
A multiple listing service is a computerized listing of homes for sale in a particular area that are listed with a real estate agent that is a member of the MLS. Agents have access to information about houses that the general public do not and can use this to aide in the purchase of a new home. The general public has access to limited information through various avenues on the internet.
What is a REALTOR®?
A REALTOR® is an agent or agency that belongs to the local, state, or national board of REALTORS® and is affiliated with the "National Association of REALTORS®" (or NAR). They follow a strict code of ethics beyond state license laws and they sponsor the Multiple Listing System (MLS).
What is the first step in selling my home?
The first step is to find a real estate agent that you trust to help you through this process. The agent will walk you through the contracts, the pricing, staging your house, and letting you know what to expect throughout the transaction.
What is the first step in buying a home?
Like getting ready to list a house, when you are ready to buy a home, first meet with an agent that you really trust and are compatible with. The next step is to find out how much money you qualify for and what sort of house you are looking for. Some people get pre-qualified or pre-approved for a loan before meeting with a real estate agent and that is fine as well. After this, it is time to start looking for a home.
What is the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
The difference is simple: Being pre-qualified means that you potentially could get a loan for the amount stated to you, assuming that all the information given was accurate and true to the lender. Being pre-approved means that you have undergone extensive financial background check -- which includes looking at your credit history and previous tax returns and verifying your employment -- and the lender is agreeing to give you a loan. This is usually valid for approximately 60 days.
