For anyone who's interested: Here's the 10 reasons to choose Realtor list that I found on planetrealtor.com (so credit goes to FAR, but I'm sure this could be used for other states as well)-
1. Peace of Mind
Choosing and settling into a new residence can be among the most satisfying experiences in life.
Yet in looking forward to new surroundings to enjoy, you shouldn’t be worried about the nuts-and-bolts of a real estate transaction.
That’s the role of your REALTOR, who can take care of details for you and help you appreciate all the great reasons behind your wise decision.
2. Solutions
Paperwork, inspections, financing, disclosures. It takes many elements coming together — often quickly and simultaneously — to make a real estate sale happen.
A REALTOR can coordinate the details for you, following a comprehensive checklist, saving you valuable time and helping you avoid pitfalls. And if the unexpected does occur, it’s great to have a professional problem - solver in your corner.
3. Security
It’s a fact that some potential home buyers and sellers try the process on their own, then quickly turn to a professional.
There are many reasons involved. One key reason is the added measure of safety that can come from a REALTOR escorting you to homes for sale in unfamiliar neighborhoods or arranging to show your home to prescreened potential buyers.
4. Experience
Most people are involved in a handful of real estate transactions in a lifetime. A REALTOR may handle that many in a month, or even a week.
That’s an important consideration to keep in mind since real estate is typically our largest single investment. And just as you obtain qualified medical or legal advice, some things shouldn’t be left to chance.
5. Value
Not many of us have the time or facts we need to analyze local real estate prices.
A REALTOR, on the other hand, is a professional who takes the time each day to evaluate trends and compare asking-selling prices in specific neighborhoods. That can prove invaluable in helping you determine a realistic, fair market price for a property.
6. Understanding
Variable-rate mortgages, lease-buy options, seller-financed sales and many more. The choice among real estate financing techniques can be confusing.
A REALTOR can help you sort out your alternatives as you decide what makes the most sense for you both today and tomorrow. After all, what’s best for a friend or relative may not be most advantageous for you.
7. Perspective
It’s only natural: a buyer wants to pay less, a seller wants to receive more. Negotiating a fair compromise between the two can be a real challenge, sometimes even an art.
That’s where a REALTOR comes in, bringing people together, pointing out options, providing useful insight and information to create a win-win situation for everyone.
8. Rapport
Having a wide support network can be an advantage in any job. A Florida REALTOR, however, is especially fortunate to be part of the state’s largest professional trade association.
This relationship gives your REALTOR access to a vast assortment of services from financing to inspections that can help your transaction move more quickly and more smoothly.
9. Expertise
There are numerous elements to even the most straightforward real estate transaction. Many buyers and sellers aren’t aware, for example, what property information must be disclosed, because disclosure laws change.
A REALTOR has resources that provide updates on constantly evolving rules and regulations. This knowledge can protect you from last minute and long-lasting complications.
10. Commitment
There’s more to being a REALTOR than simply getting a real estate license. It requires a strict commitment to a Code of Ethics. A strict commitment to a high standard of conduct.
Not all license holders make this commitment. They don’t think the time, money and effort are worthwhile. But a REALTOR makes the investments it takes to serve you more professionally.