Buying or selling a house is one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make—you don’t want to make any rookie mistakes. Real estate professionals, such as real estate agents, buyer’s brokers and real estate attorneys can help you navigate the real estate market. 80% of home buyers and home sellers, according to a 2006 REAL Trends and Harris Interactive survey, use real estate professionals in their transactions.

WHAT REAL ESTATE AGENTS DO FOR BUYERS

Show Properties
Agents have greater access than the general public to property listings. They schedule appointments and handle logistics for viewing properties—all you have to do is show up.

Provide Valuable Insight
A good agent knows the neighborhood. They can offer information on property tax rates, schools, crime, and how the area has fared in previous market cycles. They objectively answer questions about the process, explain concepts, and make suggestions to help you find the perfect home.

Refer You to Other Professionals
Agents work with mortgage lenders, inspectors, and other professionals in the real estate industry. They are able to refer you to reputable providers as needed.

Negotiate on Your Behalf
Agents act as middlemen between you and the seller although they usually represent the interests of the seller. A good agent can ask for terms that you may not know of or have the confidence to request.

WHAT REAL ESTATE AGENTS DO FOR SELLERS

Market Your Listing
To get the word out, agents write and advertise your sales listing on the internet, place classified ads, and alert agents who are representing buyers.

Coordinate Showings and Open Houses
Agents work with you to find convenient times to show your home then manage the entire process -- from marketing to hosting to follow-up. Your only job is to clear out at the appointed time and keep your home “show ready”.

Provide Valuable Insight
A good agent is a market expert who knows the amount and prices of comparable sale properties. They determine which features of your home to highlight to make it attractive in a competitive market and what price to set.

Refer You to Other Professionals
Agents work with mortgage lenders, inspectors, and other professionals in the real estate industry. They are able to refer you to reputable providers as needed.

Negotiate on Your Behalf
Agents act as middlemen between you and the seller. A good agent can ask for terms that you may not have the confidence to request.

WHAT REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS DO

Review All Documents
Real estate transactions require reams of paperwork. Real estate attorneys review your agent agreement, contract, title, and closing documents to protect your interests.

Simplify Complicated Matters
A good attorney can translate legalese contained in transactional documents, so you feel confident about signing them.

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT AGENTS
While working with a real estate professional may save you time, stress, and money, some are better than others. Here’s how to find the best:

Ask Friends and Coworkers for Recomendations
They’re the most likely to give you an honest assessment.

Look for a Track Record
You want someone with several years of experience—they’ll be more familiar with all types of deals during different market conditions.

Meet in Person
Given the enormity of this purchase, you’ll want someone whose personality and working style complements yours.

Be Choosy
Interview several agents and attorneys to make sure you end up with the best fit.

Ask Whom They Represent
If your agent or attorney also represents a potential seller, they must act on that seller’s behalf, not yours. Find out how they handle potential conflicts of interest.

THE BOTTOM LINE
Purchasing a home can be a lengthy process with lots of variables to consider. Working with trustworthy and knowledgeable professionals can ease your mind and even save you money. Follow these suggestions to find the right partners to take you from house hunt to move in.