10 Steps to Home Ownership!
Step 2. Get a REALTOR®
More than 2 million people in the United States have earned real estate licenses. However, real estate is a tough business with a steep dropout rate, and the result is that only a small percentage of those with licenses actively help buyers and sellers.
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) includes 1 million brokers and salespeople, individuals bound together with a strong Code of Ethics, extensive training opportunities and a wealth of community information. As NAR members we are routinely active in PTAs, local government committees and a variety of neighborhood organizations. Being actively involved in community affairs provides us with a better understanding of the area in which we are selling.
Why?
Buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. At first it might seem that by checking local picture books or online sites you could quickly find the right home at the right price.
But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties -- even two identical models on the same street -- are precisely and exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. Also, no two transactions are alike.
In this maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and much more.
How do you choose?
In every community you're likely to find a number of realty brokerages. Because there is heated competition, we must fight hard to succeed in your community.
We take pride in the fact that 90% of our business is referral-based; through recommendations from past clients, current clients, our neighbors and suggestions from our business partners (lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs).
See our About Me page which lists our training, experience, representation and professional certifications. What should you expect when working with a REALTOR®?
Once you select us we will want to establish the proper business relationship. You likely know that there are times when we represent sellers while other times we represent buyers. We will be certain to explain the options available to you, describe how we typically work with individuals and provide you with complete agency disclosures (the ins and outs of your relationship with the agent) as required in the state of Maryland.
Once we're hired for the job, we will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to your given situation. Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace we will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process.