Whether you're looking to buy or sell, your best move would be to hire an expert. Your agent will know what's best for you, and your unique situation. As a Realtor, I take great pride in becoming my clients trusted advisor; giving them all up-to-date market information. Staying abreast of todays market information, technology, guidelines, and laws, it gives your agent an edge, and an advantage that you may not have, or have accessibility. Consider the following:
Buyers:
-For you, and agent is free, not just monetarily, but a wealth of free information, and knowledge. With this free information, comes mentorship, advisory, and the peace of mind in knowing you have a trusted liasion to make sure you make a sound investment every step of the way.
-All the homework is done for you. I know you have millions of questions, most you can't even remember, but don't fret, your agent has most of them covered, and can supply more legwork and information for you if needed.
-Too busy to house hunt? It's covered. Information, and technology are an essential tool to your agent. He/she will have all of what you need at the blink of an eye, with the click of a mouse, or a tap on the mobile phone.
-There are thousands of loan programs. Which is the best for you? Not every loan is created equally, just ass you are you unique, so is your financial trend. How do you know what works for your unique situation? Contact your agent, he/she will give you a break-down, and a proper analysis tailored to meet your needs.
Seller:
-For you, an agent is free ...until closing. I know you're saying, "yeah, I knew there was a catch." No, there's no catch. Think of it this way; most seller's only place a sign in their yards, or if they are internet-savvy they pay a monthly fee to post their home on a what is know as a FSBO site, or For Sale By Owner. What if your home doesn't "move" or isn't sold for Six to Eight months? Your wallet is still taking a hit, and if you're thinking about using what agents use to market your home. Think again, unless you're planning to spend thousands of your dollars to advertise, and tons of hours marketing your home on your own. Ask yourself, "Do I really have the time?"
-MLS: <~~~~ This is your best friend, as side from your Realtor of course. The MLS or Multiple Listing Service, is a database used to market your home to thousands of Realtors and agents who have access. So not only is your agent marketing your home, there's a very strong chance that others are also.
-Market Conditions: There are many reasons why homes sit and grow stale on the market. The more prominent cause is due to homes that are over-priced. If you're thinking about placing your home on the market, how do you know to price it effectively? At what price will buyers come knocking my doors down? This is where your experienced espert comes into play. There's more to pricing your home than calculating your tax assessment. Often times people look at their neighbors price, and this could be a negative on both your priorities. Also, what if you're in an area that has a high number of foreclosures, and REO or Real Estate Owned properties? Not only does this yank at your price tag, can suck what equity you mave have clean.
Moral of this story? Consider hiring an agent, or atleast seeking advice from an expert. The overall goal here is to promote better judgement in these market conditions. I have faith you will choose wisely.
Anthony B. Green Jr. (Birmingham's Loft Guy)
RealtorRealtySouth - Hoover Metropolitan Office
160 Main Street
Suite #240
Birmingham, Alabama 35244
205.215.2090
205.987.0000
Don't Forget To Follow: Twitter.com/BhamLoftGuy
