Why Use a REALTOR®?
What is a REALTOR®?
A Title That Stands for Excellence
Holding a real estate salesperson or broker license does NOT make one a REALTOR®. Before you choose an advocate to help you buy or sell a home, make sure they have taken the next step in receiving the highest seal of excellence one can hold in the real estate profession- the title of REALTOR®.
To receive this title, they must become a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, which requires them to subscribe to a strict code of ethics. This Code thoroughly describes the kind of performance you have a right to expect from your REALTOR®. Not only that, REALTORS® are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the home buying and selling process. Membership entitles them to use the term “REALTOR®” on their business cards and in marketing materials—a sign to you that they have pledged to uphold the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. As a client, this is your first indication that your interests are always protected, and that your needs are your REALTOR®‘s first obligation.
If you hold a real estate license but are not a REALTOR® ...
CLICK HERE for more information about becoming a member of UPSTAR—a local branch of the most respected organization in the real estate profession.
Why Use a REALTOR®?
Whether you’re buying a home for the first time, or selling your old home to move into something new, don’t trust one of the largest investments you’ll ever make to just anyone? Hire a trusted professional who will be your partner and advocate in the real estate transaction. If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be ill-advised to consider a real estate transaction without the professional assistance of a REALTOR® to guide you through an intricate process that can be confusing and frustrating to a buyer or seller.
Buyers and sellers turn to a REALTOR® because:
- Your REALTOR® can help you determine your buying power — that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity.
- Your REALTOR® has access to many marketing channels not available to you.
- Your REALTOR® can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property.
- Your REALTOR® can help you negotiate.
- Your REALTOR® provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property.
- Your REALTOR® can help you in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders.
- Your REALTOR® can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly.
- When selling your home, your REALTOR® can give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the marketplace and the price, financing, terms and conditions of competing properties.
- Your REALTOR® markets your property to other real estate agents and the public.
- Your REALTOR® will know when, where and how to advertise your property.
- Your REALTOR® can help you objectively evaluate every buyer’s proposal without compromising your marketing position.
- Your REALTOR® can help close the sale of your home.