A Realtor(r) is a licensed real estate agent or broker who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors. (The word Realtor is trademarked and always written in capital letters.)

Working with a Realtor can make the process of buying or selling your home go more smoothly and ensure that you have someone looking out for your best interests throughout the transaction.

They Know the Local Market

Real estate agents have access to a wide range of property listings, thanks to the Multiple Listing Service. They can use the information to help their clients buy or sell homes and properties. For instance, a real estate agent may be able to tell buyers if a home is overpriced by comparing it to nearby sales data.

Realtors can also advise sellers on what repairs and cosmetic work can be done to a property in order to increase its marketability. This knowledge can save home sellers money on a sale or prevent them from overpaying for a home.

In addition to having access to a wide array of property listings, Realtors can also help their clients connect with other agents and the public through local real estate associations. This can save buyers and sellers a lot of time, as they don't have to individually set up appointments for each viewing.

Many people hire a Realtor because of their local knowledge. A good realtor can answer questions about a neighborhood's crime rate, schools, and other quality of life issues. They can also provide insight into how the area's housing market has been performing lately. They can even recommend mortgage lenders that will be a good fit for their clients.

They Can See Issues You May Not

While it may be easy for a homeowner to see the potential of their home, a Realtor can take an objective view. This allows them to help sellers get the best price for their home. They also know when a problem could arise that would stop a sale, such as a needed repair or a seller who won't budge on their asking price.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) advocates on the local, state and federal levels for issues involving homeownership. This means that when you work with a Realtor, you can be sure that they will have your best interests at heart. They will also adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is often more stringent than the standards required by law.

When choosing a Realtor, ask about their reputation in the community. Look for online reviews and testimonials, and be sure to interview candidates thoroughly before making a decision. Choosing a Realtor is a big decision that will impact your financial future, so it's worth taking the time to make sure that you're working with someone who can meet your needs and expectations. And of course, be sure to work with a Realtor who is licensed and registered with the NAR. This will ensure that they are following NAR's high standards of professionalism and ethics.

They Can Negotiate on Your Behalf

As a buyer, a good realtor will keep you honest about a home’s value and help negotiate the best deal for you. They’ll also be a valuable resource when it comes to recommending third-party professionals, like contractors and home inspectors. Realtors are also required to uphold the NAR Code of Ethics, which is a more stringent version of standard real estate ethical requirements.

If you’re selling a house, your agent will help you determine an appropriate listing price based on market analysis and comparable sales. They’ll then help you navigate the complicated process of submitting offers and counteroffers. They’ll also keep you up-to-date on any new developments in the negotiation.

In a seller’s market, houses tend to get snatched up fairly quickly once they’re listed. If you price yours too high, though, it could sit on the market for a long time and make buyers think there’s something wrong with it. A realtor can help you avoid this mistake by educating you on the local market and pricing trends.

If you’re buying a home, a realtor can connect you with quality third-party professionals, including lenders, title companies and movers. They can also provide you with a list of homes that meet your criteria and arrange home tours. They’ll even walk you through the closing process to make sure everything goes smoothly.

They Can Save You Money

When considering buying or selling a property many people think they can save money by not using a real estate agent. After all, the agent typically receives a fee between 5% and 6% of the sale price, which can add up quickly.

However, working with a realtor can actually help you save money in a number of ways.

For example, a realtor will often have a network of professionals that are used in the course of a transaction, including mortgage brokers, home inspectors, contractors and real estate attorneys. They will also have a better idea of the local market and can use this knowledge to negotiate the best possible price for you.

In addition, real estate agents can decipher paperwork that may be filled with complicated legal jargon and terms you don’t understand. They can also help you request and review seller disclosures that are required by law.

When choosing a Realtor, make sure they have good negotiation skills and are experienced with both commercial and residential properties. You should also quiz them on investor terminology and ask them if they have experience in the type of transactions you are looking to complete. By doing so, you can find a great business partner who will not only help you grow your bottom line but also create a consistent flow of repeat business for both parties.