There is a stream of thought out there that says, "Hey there is the Internet out there Realtors are obsolete. To me it is like saying I brush my teeth, I read on WEBMD I do not need a dentist. Now more than ever you need a Realtor. Why ? Here is why.
In these tight times you may be looking to spend as little as possible. So you think I will buy a home that is less expensive, or buy a manufactured home. But if that home is not on city water and on a gravel road, or even a paved road you may find that your insurance for the former eats up any savings you might achieve. It means knowing the difference from a district 9 as opposed to 12 for fire.
If you are a senior the county you buy in in Georgia may offer you a significant tax advantage. So In Georgia there is a break for Seniors in Cherokee county. Go across the street to Pickens where homes may be a little less expensive and guess what. less of a break
Loans are no exception. a 3.5% down FHA may actually mean higher payments than a 100 percent USDA. Depending on the lender they may not know USDA exists. The list goes on .
So the point is, in this market a Realtor is here to save you real money. When you look back on your buying experience you should be able to say, " I am so happy I used a Realtor." Saving money in this economy now more than ever means you should use your community experts. Your Realtor is your community expert.
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Charlie Ragonesi All Mountain Realty Big Canoe and Mountain Blog
On line at www.allmountainrealty.com Call at 706 579 1098
Charlie,
Avoiding the services of a real estate professional when buying or selling what turns out to be the most expensive transaction a person will make in their lifetime...just doesn't make much 'cents'...!!! Thanks, Fran
Charlie,
Back in the 90's we worried that the internet would make us obsolete, but, you're right, it hasn't. All the more, people need an experienced agent to help them navigate information overload from the internet.
Hi Charlie:
I agree...I find that people appreciate the experience and knowledge of agents.
the BEST reason to use a Realtor in this market: If you're going to buy an REO or a short sale (as most listings are right now), you're going to have to use an EXPERIENCED Realtor! The sellers (lenders) won't even talk to buyers directly, these are very complicated transactions!
In my opinion, the Internet, if anything, has increased the need for a Realtor because there is simply so much bogus crap out there about home selling and buying. FSBO listing websites in particular, plain out lie about the home selling process all in an attempt to get their listing fee out of home owners looking to "save" the commission. Upset me so much I wrote an article about it.
Hi Charlie - Love the teeth brushing / dentist analogy - I'm filing that away to use in the future. Thanks!
Liz