Your Real Estate Agent Is Just a Real Estate Agent!

The title of this short article is not meant in any way to detract from the professionalism and service Realtors provide customers.  Rather it is meant as tip for prospective home buyers and sellers.

I recently read a comment that real estate agents wear a lot of hats and clients expect them to know it all.

Buying or selling a house is very often the greatest financial decision an individual makes in a lifetime. And it should be approached fully informed.

But what is that information based upon?  Certainly not just the information on the internet - including this article. 

How do you know when the advice is good?   Anything found on the Internet must be evaluated on its own merits.

Whether buying a home or selling the first step is hiring a real estate agent.   As a buyer this is a good deal because you don't pay for the agent you hire - the seller does!

And while the real estate agent one chooses must be knowledgeable in the market and processes they must also acknowledge their limitations.

Most real estate agents are not

• Appraisers.  While real estate agents provide an opinion of value (a market analysis) in the end it is just that - an opinion. 
• Tax Advisers.  Consult a CPA/accountant if you need to know the answers. 
• Legal Experts.  Attorneys are the experts.  A real estate agent who in not an attorney is treading on dangerous ground when they offer anything remotely resembling legal opinions. 
• Homeowner Association Expert.  What the rules allow or don't when it comes to the association rules is not your real estate agent's bailiwick.
• General contractors.  Unless your real estate agent is an experienced contractor then estimates of repairs or opinions of condition are out of their expertise.  Further, when you have a home inspection the property inspector will tell you the condition of property - not provide a prognosis or diagnosis.
• Clairvoyant.  What will be built on the vacant lot in the future is not in their tool kit.  
• Investment Adviser.  What the future value of a property or projected return on investment will be is not a real estate skill.

When you are ready to choose a real estate agent to help you sell your Melbourne, Florida home or buy a home in Melbourne, Florida, understand what they are and, more importantly, what they are not.

Here are six articles about buying or selling a house in Florida:

1. Why You Should Not Call the Listing Agent.
2. Choosing a Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Melbourne, Florida Home.
3. Is It Desirable to Choose the Biggest Real Estate Company to Sell Your Home?
4. Is a Long Listing Contract Desirable When Selling Your Melbourne, Florida Home?
5. What Should A Seller Expect From Their Florida Real Estate Agent?
6. Multiple Offers, Appraisals and Financing.

If I can help you with the purchase or sale of house in Melbourne, Florida please call or text me at 321-693-3850.

Image courtesy of khunaspix at FreeDigitalPhotos.net