Why Use a REALTOR®?

All real estate professionals are not created equal. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® estimates that over 2 million people hold real estate licenses in the United States, but only about 1 million of them have earned the REALTOR® distinction. Through membership in their national, state and local REALTOR® associations, REALTORS® gain numerous opportunities to enhance their educational and professional development. They also are required to adhere to a strict…

Code of Ethics

Buying or Selling a home is a complex process involving what’s likely to be your most prized financial asset. Enacting a smooth transaction requires the expertise of a REALTOR® whose extensive training has prepared him or her to generate the best possible results on your behalf. Just like you shouldn’t treat a broken leg without a doctor or handle a major legal dispute without an attorney, it’s unwise to sell your home without the professional assistance of a REALTOR®.

  • Act as an expert guide.

    Buying or Selling a home typically requires a variety of forms, reports, disclosures, and other legal and financial documents. A knowledgeable real estate agent will know what's required in your market, helping you avoid delays and costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved in a real estate transaction; you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.

  • Offer objective information and opinions.

    A great real estate agent will guide you through the buying and selling process with an unbiased eye, helping you meet your objectives. Agents are also a great source when you have questions about local amenities, utilities, zoning rules, contractors, and more.

  • Give you expanded search power.

    You want access to the full range of opportunities. Using a cooperative system called the multiple listing service, your agent can help you evaluate and market effectively.

  • Stand in your corner during negotiations.

    There are many factors up for discussion in any real estate transaction—from price to repairs to possession date. A real estate professional who’s representing you will look at the transaction from your perspective, helping you negotiate with your best interest in mind.

  • Ensure an up-to-date experience.

    Most people buy or sell only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years between purchases. Even if you’ve bought a home before, laws and regulations change. Real estate practitioners may handle hundreds or thousands of transactions over the course of their career.

  • Be your rock during emotional moments.

    A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most buyers, a home is the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you when emotions threaten to sink an otherwise sound transaction.

  • Provide fair and ethical treatment.

    When you're interviewing agents, ask if they're a REALTOR®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Every member must adhere to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism, serving the interests of clients, and protecting the public.

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