Profit by Working With a REALTOR®

You're selling your home and you make an appointment with a real estate agent. You are impressed with the listing presentation and the agent asks if you want to contract with them -- i.e., their assistance in exchange for a commission. At this point you may be asking yourself: "Exactly what do I get for my money?" Here are just some of the wide array of services you may receive when you enlist the help of a real estate professional:

• Compiling information about your home in preparation for the listing. This information can include your home's square footage, type of heating and cooling, proximity to schools, and so on.
• Estimating your property's value, taking into account comparable sales in your area. This is done in order to help you price it right.
• Preparing, coordinating, and paying for advertising and marketing efforts in your home. This can include putting advertisements in the paper, conducting open houses, and placing a sign in front of the home.
• Screening prospective buyers so that only qualified buyers with serious intentions are shown your home.
• Listing the property on the MLS (multiple listing service) and working with other agents to let the maximum number of qualified buyers see your property.
• Writing offers, placing the buyer's deposit in escrow, and taking care of other necessary documentation such as title reports.
• Advising you on aspects of the sales contract and dealing with the buyer on various elements you may want to negotiate. This includes negotiating with the buyer on price, if necessary, in an effort to obtain the full value for your home.
• Helping the buyer locate financing, arrange for home inspections and an appraisal, and other details in preparation for the closing.
• Accompanying you to the closing or attending in your place.

Working with a real estate agent can save you time, money, and headaches. When you enter into a contract with an agent, you have the security of knowing that your agent is legally representing you and acting in your best interest throughout the property transaction. Additionally, choosing to work with a real estate agent who's a REALTOR can give you added peace of mind. REALTORS are more than licensed real estate practitioners. REALTORS subscribe to a Code of Ethics and pledge to provide fair and ethical treatment to both buyers and sellers.

The Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS is one of more than 1,800 local boards and associations nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS. As "The Voice for Real Estate," NAR is the nation's largest professional association, representing 750,000 members involved in all aspects of the real estate industry.

Working With A REALTOR

Buying a Home? Buying a home calls for your informed decision based in part on the knowledge, judgment and guidance of a real estate broker or agent -- particularly one who is a REALTOR.

Unlike many real estate agents who are simply licensed by their state to do business, REALTORS have taken additional steps to become members of their local Board of REALTORS and have agreed to act under and adhere to a Code of Ethics.

This membership obligates them to be fair to all parties involved in this transaction, be it buyer, seller or cooperating agent. Be sure your real estate agent is a REALTOR.

REALTORS do more...much more...Than you may think.

A REALTOR can help you determine how much home you can afford. Often a REALTOR can suggest ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods.

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 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 to buy.

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.

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 simply, 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, 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. Count on this real estate professional to facilitate negotiation of an agreement satisfactory to both seller and buyer.

If you see a home as one of your most important investments, the REALTOR you work with could be one of your most valuable resources. As a home buyer, you can expect the commitment, integrity and expertise that you'll find in REALTORS. It is the business of a REALTOR to work with you by understanding your home buying needs and showing you properties that fit your lifestyle and budget.

The Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS is one of more than 1,800 local boards and associations nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS. As "The Voice for Real Estate," NAR is the nation's largest professional association, representing 750,000 members involved in all aspects of the real estate industry.