When it comes to buying a home, some people prefer to go it alone, without a real estate professional by their side. While DIY home buying is not a bad thing, it could also result in a deal that leaves much to be desired.
That’s because there’s a range of rapidly shifting factors to consider in any real estate transaction, especially in today’s market. Someone without the in-depth knowledge or up-to-the-minute intel of a real estate agent is likely to miss key details that can make or break a home purchase.
So when buying a house and wondering if finding a Realtor is worthwhile, here are a few reasons why it is worth the time and effort.
Realtors know exactly what you need to look out for
When it comes to examining the many features of a house, seasoned agents have years of experience to draw from.
Having seen all kinds of properties in various shapes and conditions, professionals will be in the best position to detect major issues. Whether it’s a heating issue, a plumbing problem, or mold, your Realtor can help you spot the tell-tale signs of underlying problems. And, if they’re reputable, they will act in your best interests and steer you away from such properties.
A local Realtor can also help you get up to speed with the neighborhood. While you can Google the perks of your desired community (nearby schools, grocery stores, parks), an agent can let you in on information that’s not readily available like flood plains, zoning restrictions, or real estate projects planned for the future.
You don’t have to show up in person to meet the seller
In California, it’s perfectly fine for buyers and sellers to never meet in person. In other words, you’re not compelled to meet the seller during any phase of the transaction, whether it’s to negotiate the sales price or to examine the home. Instead, it’s usually up to the agents to look into the details of the transaction on behalf of their clients. That is all the more reason to pick the right real estate agent for the job.
Realtors help you go through detailed home disclosures
Before finalizing the sale, sellers in California are required to provide extensive home disclosures to buyers. If you’re unfamiliar with the document, it can be daunting to see the detail and scope of what the Department of Real Estate in California requires. These disclosures may also contain the kind of language better suited to lawyers and real estate practitioners, slowing down your ability to make sense of the document.
A Realtor with in-depth knowledge of California real estate can help you decode the legalese and real estate terminologies, or simply go through all the paperwork on your behalf while explaining what it all means.
You can use what’s in the home disclosure to negotiate better purchase terms.
Realtors help you stay objective and sharp during negotiations
Negotiation is an essential part of any real estate deal. And for many buyers, it can be easy to get caught up in the heat of the process. While completely normal, resorting to emotionally driven decisions can cost you (trying to outbid competitors, etc.).
Realtors aren’t emotionally invested in the properties they buy and sell, which allows them to view things objectively. Even though their counsel may feel counterintuitive if you’re in an emotional state, Realtors will explain the situation as objectively as possible to help you arrive at the best possible outcome.
If you require the services of top Realtors in Los Angeles, get in touch with The Lux Group. We have been setting the standard in LA real estate for over 10 years. Call 310.853.1000 or contact us here.