Why Use a Realtor? Here's 12 Reasons

Because so much money is involved, some homeowners are tempted to sell their houses themselves and avoid paying a commission to the real estate agent. Those who try discover three things very quickly - not only is it complicated to sell your own house, but it is also a lot of work and a challenge to reach a large audience of potential home buyers. Selling a house involves much more than just putting up a "For Sale" sign.

According to the National Association of Realtors, here are 12 ways a Realtor can help you get the most money for your current home and help you find your next dream home.

1.  Realtors are professionals who subscribe to a strict code of ethics.  Not all real estate agents are Realtors. As a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a Realtor maintains a high level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate and treats all parties to a transaction honestly and fairly. An independent survey, according to the NAR, reveals that 84% of home buyers would use the same Realtor again.

2.  Realtors can help you find financing and will help you determine your buying power. You won't waste your time hunting for a $500,000 home if your finances limit you to something in the $250,000 range.

3.  Realtors know what's available - even the houses that are not actively advertised.

4.  Realtors are resourceful - specifically, they can provide information on the local schools, zoning utilities and much more. They can also explain different financing options.

5.  Realtors will help you negotiate the best price - whether you are buying or selling. Negotiations can also include repairs, furnishings, date of possession and more.

6.  Realtors provide due diligence - What inspections and investigations are recommended? You don't want to discover, after you've moved in, that your insulation contains asbestos or your septic system hasn't been pumped out for a decade.

7.  Realtors can help you navigate the closing process - whether you are buying or selling.

8.  Realtors are experts at setting the best price for your house. They specialize in knowing the marketplace and will explain why your house is worth a certain amount.

9.  Realtors will help you "stage" your house to increase its appeal.  Minor updates and changes can enhance the saleability of your house.

10.  Realtors know how to reach potential home buyers. NAR studies reveal that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, family and personal relationships.

11.  Realtors are trustworthy. No one likes letting strangers wander around his or her home unchaperoned. A Realtor accompanies qualified prospects around your property.

12.  Realtors will help you evaluate the buyer's proposal and negotiate a counter-offer (if necessary).

*Reprinted from National Association of Realtors at http://www.realtor.org/