Why do I need a real estate agent

Buying a house can be a very difficult task, especially if you're a first-time homebuyer.

Homebuying is even more difficult if you have recently relocated to Highland Park CA from another state or country. There is plenty of residential inventory right now in Highland Park and other Eastside of Los Angeles neighborhoods. To save yourself the stress of finding a home, your best option would be to hire a real estate agent in Highland Park. An agent or broker living and servicing the Eastside communities is a smart decision. That's the short answer. If you're not convinced yet, the list below may help shed some light on why you need a real estate agent on your team.

Reasons why you should use the services of a real estate agent:

If you're not a licensed realtor or real estate broker you probably don't spend seven days a week selling homes like most agents. Let the experts be the experts. With that said, unfortunately, a lot of people with real estate licenses don't practice fulltime or are rookies. You'll want to make sure to steer clear of those people.

I seasoned real estate agent will have the knowledge and experience to guide you in the pursuit of your perfect home. It's smart to discuss your preferences and your budget with your realtor. Don't spin your wheels chasing homes outside your budget or financial comfort zone. People spend a lot of time looking at the wrong houses.

A real estate agent should refer you to a reputable mortgage advisor. The lender will preapprove you for a loan. This is a smart first step before you step foot in the first open house. Know your budget.

All real estate for sale information is online. I can find the house I want to buy without a real estate agent.

So you found a house online or in-person you absolutely love, now what? How do you submit an offer? How do you make sure not to spend too much money? What if you don't inspect the home correctly and find out later systems are broken or near the end of their serviceable life? All of these are reasons to work with a local Highland Park CA real estate agent.

Hire a neighborhood expert real estate broker

Hiring local is overlooked all the time. If you're searching for a home in Highland Park or Eagle Rock hire a local realtor. It would be smart to hire a real estate agent who owns property or lives in the area you want to buy a home. Does that make sense? They would be the most familiar with the neighborhood and have their nose to the grindstone. Plus, your local real estate agent should have relationships with other local realtors and brokers. This is good news for you. The likelihood your offer would be accepted is better if your agent has a relationship with the listing agent. As opposed to hiring an out of area agent based in the valley or Santa Monica - nobody would know who that agent is.

Your realtor can help you understand the current real estate market

They say the best time to buy a house is 15 years ago and the next best time is today. That may be true, but there are neighborhoods which will appreciate quicker than others. Your realtor should guide you towards the best bang for your buck neighborhood. You'll gain equity faster in your home.  

There are many other examples of why you should hire a real estate agent when buying a home. Here are a few more articles we like that you may find useful. Best of luck! 

Key Reasons Buyers Should Hire A Realtor – This article covers over 175 reasons why buyers should be working with a real estate agent.

Using a buyers agent when purchasing a home - see why you would be crazy not to have a buyer’s agent when purchasing a home.

Top 12 Ways Homeowners Sabotage the Sale of Their Home 

Don't make these common mistakes! Hire the right real estate agent when buying or selling.

About the author 

The Shelhamer Real Estate Group is a real estate brokerage working with home buyers and sellers on the Eastside of Los Angeles including, Highland Park, El Sereno, Mount Washington, South Pasadena, Glassell Park, Eagle Rock, Echo Park, Silverlake, Los Feliz, and the Hollywood Hills East.