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Why You Should Consult a REALTOR® When Buying a Home

When you’re buying a home, having a REALTOR® on your side can make a world of difference. REALTORS® are members of The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice. For those of us in Victoria, REALTORS® are also members of the Victoria Real Estate Board, which is part of both the British Columbia and Canadian Real Estate Associations.

So, what exactly can a REALTOR® do for you? Here’s a breakdown of the key services you can expect when working with a REALTOR® to buy your home:

Clear Understanding of Your Relationship

One of the first things a REALTOR® will do is explain the details of your working relationship—this is known as “agency.” It’s important that you know when the REALTOR® is working for you, and when they might be working for the seller. This transparency helps ensure you understand the process every step of the way.

Access to the Best Listings

A REALTOR® has access to hundreds of current listings thanks to the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), a co-operative system that gives you a full view of available homes on the market. With this, you’ll never miss out on a great opportunity.

Tailored Home Search

Instead of spending hours scrolling through listings, your REALTOR® will provide you with a customized list of homes that match your needs—whether that’s in terms of size, style, location, budget, or proximity to schools and shopping. They’ll even schedule showings for you so you can tour the homes that stand out.

Helping You Determine What You Can Afford

A REALTOR® can help you figure out your home budget based on your financial situation. They’ll work with you to understand how much house you can comfortably afford, considering factors like mortgage payments and ongoing costs.

Expert Lending Advice

Since REALTORS® are familiar with the local lending market, they can provide helpful advice on financing options, and even recommend trusted mortgage brokers who can guide you through the process of getting pre-approved for a loan.

Objective, Professional Guidance

When you’re shopping for a home, it’s easy to get emotionally attached to a particular place. A REALTOR® doesn’t have any emotional ties to the property, so they can offer objective advice on the pros and cons of different homes, helping you make a more informed decision.

Important Information You Need to Know

A REALTOR® is also a great resource for information that could affect your buying decision—things like zoning regulations, property taxes, utility costs, and the quality of local schools and recreation services. This knowledge can help you decide if a neighborhood is the right fit for you.

Expert Negotiation Support

Negotiating the terms of a home purchase can be stressful, especially if it’s your first time. A REALTOR® is an experienced negotiator and will help you navigate this process, making sure you get the best deal possible. They’ll work hard to protect your interests and ease the stress of negotiations.

Legal & Financial Guidance

Once you’ve found the right home, your REALTOR® will walk you through the legal process of transferring title and taking possession of your new property. They’ll also explain the costs associated with buying a home, such as insurance, legal fees, and mortgage registration, so there are no surprises along the way.

Working with a REALTOR® is one of the best ways to ensure that your home-buying experience is smooth, successful, and stress-free. They bring valuable expertise, knowledge of the local market, and a commitment to working in your best interests.

Selling Your Home: Why It Pays to Work with a REALTOR®

Selling your home is a big decision, and it’s important to approach it with a clear understanding of all the legal details and potential challenges. One misstep could lead to costly mistakes, stress, and frustration. That’s why partnering with a REALTOR® can make all the difference in ensuring that your sale is smooth, successful, and satisfying.

Greater Exposure

One of the biggest advantages of working with a REALTOR® is the exposure your home will get. REALTORS® use the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), a powerful tool that ensures your home is visible to hundreds of other agents and potential buyers. With MLS®, your home’s details are easily shared, giving it the maximum reach and the attention it deserves.

Setting the Right Price

Pricing your home correctly can be tricky—set it too high, and you risk scaring off potential buyers; set it too low, and you might leave money on the table. A REALTOR® can help you find that sweet spot. With their market knowledge and experience, they’ll guide you to a price that not only reflects your home’s value but also aligns with your selling goals. REALTORS® also screen buyers, ensuring that only serious, qualified individuals are viewing your property.

A Solid Marketing Plan

Your REALTOR® will put together a custom marketing strategy to get your home noticed. This usually includes listing your property on MLS®, putting up a “For Sale” sign, hosting open houses for both buyers and agents, and creating ads or brochures to generate interest. With their expertise, your home will have the exposure it needs to attract the right buyers.

Handling the Paperwork

Once you’ve received an offer, your REALTOR® will take care of the necessary paperwork, ensuring everything is legally sound and that all conditions are met. This is a key part of making sure the transaction goes smoothly and that you’re protected throughout the process.

Why It Just Makes Sense to Use a REALTOR®

The bottom line is this: working with a REALTOR® often leads to a better price for your home, and it takes a lot of the stress and guesswork out of the process. But beyond the financial benefits, having a REALTOR® by your side offers peace of mind. REALTORS® are bound by a strict code of ethics and professional standards, and they’re licensed under the provincial Real Estate Services Act to handle real estate transactions with the highest level of integrity.

Selling your home is a major decision, and using a REALTOR® is one of the best choices you can make to ensure a successful, hassle-free sale.