4 Reasons You Shouldn't Sell or Buy a Home Without a Real Estate Agent

You might think buying or selling a Victoria, TX, home on your own is pretty simple. Others have done it, so why not you? But keep in mind this is the biggest financial decision of your life. A real estate agent can help you do things the right way thanks to experience, training, and access to valuable resources not available to the public.

4 Reasons You Shouldn't Sell or Buy a Home in Victoria, TX Without a Real Estate Agent

1. Market Knowledge

Most people know only a little about the real estate market. You can likely get an online valuation of your home, but is that value appropriate? Your home's true value could be significantly more or less than you think, and a qualified agent can guide you in the right direction. Likewise, you may not know all the options available to buyers or how to accurately market your home. Agents do have this knowledge.  

As a buyer, you may need help identifying properties realistic for your price range. You may also need help with the dozens of forms required for a real estate transaction, including disclosures and reports. Agents work with these documents every day and can take the guesswork out of a home purchase.

2. Mistake Prevention

Perhaps you want to buy a home but haven't yet found one that speaks to you. In an act of desperation, you may settle for a house that isn't quite right. This is a costly mistake that can be easily prevented with an agent. They have access to far more listings than you might find online, and they'll ensure the home you do choose aligns with your needs.

As a seller, you might want to accept the very first offer that lands on your desk. Again, doing so can leave money on the table - money an agent knows how to obtain. They understand the technical aspects of home selling and can move quickly to finalize a solid deal.

3. Problem-Solving Skills

Homes are rarely straightforward. They may have leaky roofs, termites, or plumbing problems. Worse, the appraisal may come back below the contract sales price. Agents face and solve these problems every day as part of their jobs.

On the other hand, if you're the buyer, you don't want to address repair needs directly with the seller. Financial transactions can be emotionally charged, and the last thing you need is a heated argument with a seller in "repair denial." An agent will handle all conversations for you and not allow emotions to get in the way of progress.

4. Effective Negotiation

Buyers may want to make offers that ask for certain items to stay in the house, such as the washer and dryer or custom drapes. Such requests need to be made with a strategy in place. An agent can negotiate from either the buying and selling perspective while saving precious time.

An agent will work for you at nearly all hours of the day and night. They're available to provide more information on a home or ease fears. They can also share their market knowledge, prevent costly mistakes, and effectively negotiate on your behalf. Find your Victoria home today by contacting Greg Spears Realty.