I am Ben Keeney …. an agent with RE/MAX Right Choice in Newtown, CT.
If you have recently decided you are ready to become a homeowner, chances are you are trying to figure out what to do first. It can feel overwhelming to know where to start, but the good news is you don’t have to navigate all of that alone. I will guide you through the process to homeownership..
When it comes to buying a home, there are a lot of moving pieces. And, that’s especially true in today’s housing market. The number of homes for sale continues to be low. Home prices and mortgage rates are still high. The combination can be tricky if you don’t have reliable expertise and a trusted advisor on your side. That’s why the best place to start is connecting with a trusted and experienced agent.
Agents Are the #1 Most Useful Source in the Buying Process
The latest annual report from the National Association of Realtors finds recent homebuyers agree the #1 useful source of information they had in the home buying process was a real estate agent. Let’s break down why:
How an Agent Helps When You Buy a Home
When you think about a real estate agent, you may think of someone taking you on home showings and preparing the paperwork. A great agent does so much more than that. It’s not just being the facilitator for your purchase, it’s being your guide through every step.
The visual below shows some examples from that same NAR release of the many ways an agent adds value. It includes the percentage of homebuyers in that report who highlighted each of these benefits.
Here’s a bit more context on the survey results noted an agent continually helps buyers in these situations.
- Helped Buyer’s Understand the Process: Do you know the difference between an inspection and an appraisal, and what each report tells you? And, why they are both important? Or that there are things you shouldn’t do after applying for a mortgage, like buying appliances or furniture? I know all of these best practices and will share them with you along the way, so you don’t miss any key steps by the time you get to the closing table.
- Pointed Out Unnoticed Features or Faults with the Home: I also have a lot of experience evaluating homes. I will be able to pinpoint some things you may not have noticed about the home that could help inform your decision or at least what repairs you ask for.
- Provided a Better List of Service Providers: In a real estate transaction, there are a lot of people involved. I have experience working with various professionals in your area and can connect you with the pros you need for a successful experience.
- Negotiated Better Contract Terms and Price: Did something pop up in the home inspection or with the appraisal? I will help you re-negotiate to get the best terms and price possible.
- Improved Buyer’s Knowledge of the Search Area: Moving to a new town and you are not familiar with the area. I know the local area and can help you find the perfect location for your needs.
- Expanded Buyer’s Search Area: If you are not finding anything you are interested in, I will know other neighborhoods nearby for you to consider based on what your needs are.