Guide For First Time Home Buyers - Step 1
Step 1: Find a REALTOR
This is one of the most important steps in finding a home, and I'm not just
saying that because I'm a REALTOR, it's true!
Your REALTOR is responsible for making your home buying process as quick, painless, stress-free, and easy as possible. He/she needs to be someone you can trust, get along with, and someone who will listen to your needs and wants and work hard to logically and strategically make them happen. You want a REALTOR who is interested in making you happy, not their other clients and their self.
How can you find the best REALTOR for you?
Ask people you trust for a referral! The best way to find a good realtor is to ask your friends, family, or coworkers to refer you to someone they know, and trust! A referral is by far the best way you're going to find an experienced, top notch agent that will put your needs first.
Do your research! A simple Google search of the agents name can work wonders for first-time home buyers. You can learn about the REALTOR you've been referred on ActiveRain, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook,Google+ you name it!
Know the difference! You may notice that the word "realtor" is all capitalized. This is because someone who is a REALTOR is registed with the National Association of REALTORS. This means that they must follow a code of ethics, in addition to real estate law. A real estate agent who is not associated with this organization, however, does not abide by those same code of ethics, they are only responsible to follow the law.
Why is this difference important? If you view the code of ethics, you'll find that there are certain clauses prohibiting dilberately misleading a client, encouraging full disclosure, and more. Essentially, your REALTOR is held to a higher level of standards than those not associated with the National Association of REALTORS.
Once you've found a REALTOR, they can assist in finding out your needs and wants, and work to find homes and areas that match that. Since they've been through the home buying process countless times, they can also help you with referrals to good lenders, or any other house related professionals you need. Getting a REALTOR is the easiest way to eliminate some of the work that goes into finding a home.
If you already had some homes in mind be sure to tell your REALTOR. He/she can find out all the pertinent information regarding each home
My advice: Communicate with your REALTOR!
Guide For First Time Home Buyers - Step 1
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