For those not familiar with the world of real estate, it may be hard to separate fact from fiction. We’ve all been told things about the market from all sorts of people and it’s hard to tell what’s actually true and what’s a misconception due to lack of research or a broken game of telephone. This article will lay out some common myths and misconceptions about real estate and what the reality actually is.
Although it may make sense on the surface that removing a realtor from the equation can save you money, it fails to take into account all the time and energy that will go into selling on your own, even if you are quite knowledgeable and experienced. You aren’t just hiring a realtor to do the basic work of finding a buyer for you, you’re hiring someone who will negotiate on your behalf and bring an arsenal of market knowledge and a network of connections to the table. In the long run, a realtor will likely save you money.
Much like Myth #1, it is understandable to be hesitant about putting money into a realtor if you think you can do everything yourself. There is a common myth that realtors are only after the commission and will say anything to get it, much like a flashy salesman. The truth of the matter is that building trust is a key aspect of a realtor’s job and securing a sale off of lies is not worth the long-term damage and repeat business a realtor needs to sustain their career. The best option is to look around until you find a realtor you trust and to be open to their advice. This kind of client-realtor relationship is a two-way street.
As we have seen so far, seeking the help of professionals is always the best route to go. This is equally in the case of home inspections. You may have a good eye for certain things and know what to check but, in the end, a certified home inspector will be able to look into things you may not have ever considered and their findings even help you during price negotiations. While it may seem like an added unnecessary cost to the home-buying process, it can save you the headache of various problems cropping up once the sale has already been closed. No one wants to wait until the rainy season to find out they have a leaky roof.
The moral of the story is: do not cut costs for things that are best handled by real estate professionals. If you hire the right person, you will feel comfortable asking questions and providing your input. Always remember that these people are here to help you and alleviate any stress that may come with buying a home.