Unlike the large lenders and government subsidized companies which are attempting to enter the residential real estate resale market, local real estate agents can provide specific details about properties of interest as well as sales comparables. Properties are unique and cannot be evaluated by stock remarks or square footage alone. Sale prices are often withheld from information databases and only the local Realtor with local knowledge will know the sale price. Also, there may be special circumstances that had an impact on the sale price which are material to the buyer´s evaluation. A Realtor with local knowledge should be able to offer more accurate, extensive and valuable information to the client than any other impersonal or institutional source. When a property is in escrow, who will assist in selecting and arranging a home inspector, a roof inspector, a geologic engineer, a pest control company, a zone disclosure company, a title company, a lender, etc.? Who will assist in reading an interpreting the reports? Who will help the parties understand the critical contingency removal processes and the meeting of deadlines? Who helps to limit the liability and exposure of both the buyer and seller? Most people are not only confused by the extensive purchase contract, but do not know how to properly execute it on their own. Buyers wand sellers rely on real estate agents to represent their interests. It is the fiduciary duty of real estate agents to fairly represent to buyer and / or seller and to inform them of their choices and rights throughout the entire sale process.

Sellers who list with "part-time agents," "a friend or in-law who has a real estate license," or a mortgage company that offers a discounted rate to sell your home,: often do so in an attempt to save a few dollars in commission. This is usually a very short sighted, and ultimately costly, approach. A small savings in commission is often more than offset by the money left on the table from underselling the property, and/or the time consuming and expensive nightmares that result from failure to comply with the extensive requirements to inspect and disclose, and to properly execute and fulfill the contract and accompanying document. From a buyer´s perspective, why not use a real estate agent? The seller pays the commission and if the property is listed with a real estate agent, the amount of commission to be paid has already been negotiated between the seller and broker. The commission will be paid regardless of whether one or two agents are involved. So why not choose to have your own agent represent your interest? This type of separate representation ensures that the interests of both parties are protected.

The process of purchasing and selling real estate is complicated and fraught with liabilities. It is imperative to a success transaction that both parties are comfortable with the professional capabilities of their real estate agents´ business ethics and business styles.

Whether you are buying or selling a home, select a professional real estate agent to represent your interest to help ensure that your transaction closes as smoothly and efficiently as possible!