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Why Working with a Real Estate Agent Pays Off

Published Jan. 4, 2023

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A popular question that comes up before selling or buying a home is whether or not you should work with a REALTOR. While it is not a requirement, having a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you navigate the current market, sell/buy quicker, and earn higher profits.

Here are more reasons why hiring a real estate agent can pay off.

Optimal Pricing

When a seller hires a real estate agent, the agent will be able to educate and guide the seller on the best strategy when it comes to pricing their home. According to NAR’s most recent data from “Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers,” 86% of home sellers worked with an agent and ended up getting more for their home than those who did not use an agent.

Knowledge of Disclosures

Real estate agents are aware of all the disclosures that need to be included by the seller in a real estate contract. Examples of disclosures that are required by law depending on the state are knowledge of lead paint in the home, water damage, whether the home is part of an HOA, or any other known issues with the home. A real estate agent will be able to make sure that the seller has all the required disclosures included.

MLS Access

Agents have access to the multiple listing service (MLS), which includes all the listings in one database for the use of real estate professionals. They can promote your listing on the site to be able to get your home more exposure and save you from buyers who may not be serious about purchasing a home. When a seller’s home is listed on the MLS, their home will also pop up on other websites like Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and brokerage websites.

Showing and Staging the Home

Agents are a great resource to help give guidance on how you should stage a home to attract more buyers. A poorly staged home can make a home sit on the market longer. This is advice that agents include with their service and can help a seller save money on having to hire a professional stager.

An agent will also hold open houses and coordinate private showings on the seller’s behalf.  They will also help coordinate all the vendors that will need to come to the home through the selling process.

Source: Bankrate

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