Why Use a REALTOR®?
Buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. At first it might seem that by surfing various online sites you could quickly find a home at the right price. But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties — even two seemingly identical models on the same street — are exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements, and closing costs.
In this maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and much more. Those professionals are the local REALTORS® who serve your area.
Click on the links below to see the many, many steps required to bring a successful real estate transaction to fruition.
179 Ways REALTORS® Earn Their Compensation
105 More Ways REALTORS® Earn Their Compensation
How do You Choose?
In every community you’re likely to find a number of realty brokerages. Because there is heated competition, local REALTORS® must fight hard to succeed in your community. One place to find a local REALTOR® is from GAR’s ‘Find a REALTOR® directory. Other sources include open houses, local advertising, web sites, referrals from other REALTORS®, recommendations from neighbors and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs. The experiences and recommendations of past clients can be invaluable.
In many cases, buyers will interview several REALTORS® before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as training, experience, representation and professional certifications. Please note that compensation rates are negotiable, as they have always been. For 30 years, Georgia REALTORS® have had transparent buyer representation agreements.
Starting in August 2024, all buyers must sign an agreement with the broker addressing compensation that may be owed before the buyer can be shown properties listed in REALTOR® owned Multiple Listing Services.
What Should You Expect?
After you select a REALTOR®, you will want to establish a proper business relationship. You likely know that some REALTORS® represent sellers while others represent buyers. Each REALTOR® will explain the options available, describe how he or she typically works with individuals, and provide you with complete agency disclosures required in your state.
Once you enter into an agreement with the REALTOR®, he or she will provide you with information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to your specific situation. Remember: Because market conditions can change and the strategies that apply in one negotiation may be inappropriate in another, this information should not be set in stone. During your time in the marketplace, your REALTOR® will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process.