You've been thinking about it for a while and have finally decided to take the big step. You're ready to find your dream home. But where do you start?
1. Find you the right home
No matter what you need help with, there's always an expert in that field. Are your teeth hurting? Go see the Dentist. Need tax guidance? Consult your Accountant. In a sticky situation? Call your lawyer.
The same idea applies to real estate. You aren't expected to search an entire database of property listings, be familiar with market trends, understand zoning bylaws, or be an expert negotiator. That's not your area of expertise. Once you are ready to begin the search for your dream home, you should contact an expert - a Real Estate Agent.
Below are the top 3 ways Real Estate Agents can help you in your home buying process:
3. Educate you on current and projected market trends
- Explain the difference between a buyer's and seller's market
- Identify neighbourhoods that suit your lifestyle
- Provide key stats and reports on property sales
- Pinpoint growth opportunities
2. Prepare offers and negotiate favourable deals
- Educate you on the process and contents of a sales contract
- Advise you on what comparable properties are selling for
- Conduct a deep dive on property details (sales history, features, restrictions, etc.)
- Work with you to establish an offer price
- Write and present offers to sellers
- Negotiate with sellers to ensure you obtain the best deal possible
1. Find you the right home
- Help you identify your needs and wants
- Filter through hundreds of properties listed on the market
- Connect with other agents to find off-market properties
- Preview and pre-qualify properties
- Arrange showings that work with your schedule
- Identify the pros and cons of a property
- Ensure the sellers disclose all relevant information regarding the property
- Assist you in creating a plan for the property (short-, medium-, and long-term)