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.
• 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® is bound and obligated by the Code of Ethics to give fair treatment to all parties in the transaction.

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.

Realtor® is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.