DURHAM REGION – Buying a home can be an overwhelming, time consuming and daunting task without the help of an expert, but what value do REALTORS® really offer homebuyers?

Your REALTOR® is a trained professional. In addition to extensive pre-licensing courses to obtain credentials for practicing in real estate, REALTORS® upgrade their knowledge on an ongoing basis to ensure they can provide clients with current advice. They develop useful skill sets that can help you understand the complex process of purchasing a property.

Your REALTOR® can provide you with valuable insight into the market and represent your interests. REALTORS® know how to find homes that meet your needs and can use a comparative market analysis to help you determine the fair market value of a home you are interested in. After negotiating the best deal on your behalf, your REALTOR® continues to represent your interests right through to closing by attending the home inspection with you and addressing any issues or concerns with the sellers.

Your REALTOR® is an ethical business person. REALTORS® must adhere to a strict Code of Ethics of the Canadian Real Estate Association and observe the provincial laws that govern exactly how real estate can and cannot be traded. When you trust a REALTOR® with helping you find a home, they take this responsibility very seriously.

Top 5 Questions to Ask When Hiring a REALTOR®:

1.    Will I be asked to sign a Buyer Representative Agreement? Why?
Its important to fully understand your REALTOR'S® commitment to representing your best interests.

2.    Will you explain the details of any documents I'm asked to sign?
Your REALTOR® should be able to answer any questions you may have about documents you may be asked to sign.

3.    Will you provide references?
Ask if any of the references are related to the REALTOR®. Ask if you can call their references with additional questions.

4.    What separates you from your competition?
Key phrases to listen for: assertive, available by phone or e-mail, analytical, able to maintain a good sense of humour under trying circumstances.

5.    Can you help me find other professionals?
Your REALTOR® may be able to provide a list of service providers who can help with things such as home inspection, renovations, legal and financial advice. Get an explanation if you see the term "affiliated". It could mean the REALTOR® is getting compensation from vendors.

Durham REALTORS®, We Work Where You Live. To contact a local Durham Association REALTOR® or to search for a weekend open house or listings in your neighbourhood, please visit www.DurhamRealEstate.org.