Buying or Selling A Home? Use A REALTOR®

Over one million licensed brokers and salespeople are REALTORS® – members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) who adhere to a strong Code of Ethics, participate in extensive training opportunities, and possess a wealth of community information. On statewide and local levels, REALTORS® are your neighbors, PTA members, government committee members and charity activists and donors. Through their regular involvement in local organizations and events, you can be assured that REALTORS® in your area are engaged members of the community and truly understand the marketplace. Currently there are almost 22,000 REALTORS® in Maryland who are ready to assist you with finding the perfect home.

Why Use A REALTOR®?

Realtor LogoBuying and selling real estate is a complex process. At first it might seem that by checking local real estate books or online sites you could quickly find a home at the right price. But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties — even two seemingly identical models on the same street — are exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements, and closing costs.

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. Those professionals are the local REALTORS® who serve your area.

Couple meeting with REALTOR®

How Do You Choose?

In every community you’re likely to find a number of real estate brokerages. Because there is heated competition, local REALTORS® must fight hard to succeed in your community. The best place to find a local REALTOR® is open houses, local advertising, web sites, referrals from other REALTORS®, recommendations from neighbors and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs. The experiences and recommendations of past clients can be invaluable.

In many cases, buyers will interview several REALTORS® before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as training, experience, representation and professional certifications.

Going Over Contract with REALTOR®

What Should You Expect?

After you select a REALTOR®, you will want to establish a proper business relationship. Some REALTORS® represent sellers while others represent buyers. Each REALTOR® will explain the options available, describe how he or she typically works with individuals, and provide you with required agency disclosures.

Once you enter into an agreement with the REALTOR®, he or she will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to your specific situation. He or she will also help you evaluate potential properties, make a purchase offer, navigate the inspection process, and guide you through the closing to ensure everything goes smoothly.