Here are a few real estate thoughts:

1.  A real estate transaction is complicated. Most of the time, buying or selling a home requires tons of paperwork including disclosure forms, inspection reports, addendums and a 6 page (minimum) Purchase Contract.  A Realtor has the knowledge and training to help you avoid delays or costly mistakes.

2.  Selling or buying a home is time consuming. Even in a strong market, homes in our area stay on the market for an average of 75 days. And it usually takes another 40 days or so for the transaction to close after an offer is accepted.

3.  Real estate has its own terms and vocabulary. If you don't know a CMA from a HUD or know what's the difference between title insurance and home owners insurance you can understand the importance of having the help of someone who does.

4.  Real Estate Agents have gone through the process of buying and selling many times. Most people buy and sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you've done it before, laws and regulations change. That's why having an expert on your side is critical.

5.  REALTORS provide objectivity. Since a home often symbolizes family, rest, and security, not just four walls and roof, homeselling or buying is often a very emotional undertaking. And for most people, a home is the biggest purchase they'll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you keep focused on both the business and emotional issues most important to you.

6.  REALTORS are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, a trade organization of nearly 1 million members nationwide. REALTORS subscribe to a stringent code of ethics that helps guarantee the highest level of service and integrity.