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The decision to
buy or sell a home or property is one of the most important personal
and financial decisions most people make. When it comes to such a
big investment, it pays to choose your REALTORŪ
just as carefully as you choose your home.
To sell real
estate in Illinois, a person must obtain a license through the State
of Illinois by completing a minimum standard of education,
examinations and experience requirements. Upon completion of the
license, many agents will choose to join their local board or
association,
as well as the state and National Association of REALTORSŪ. Membership in these associations requires an
agent to abide by a strict code of ethics and a standard of
professional behavior that sometimes exceeds the requirements for
state licensing.
"REALTORSŪ
are experts in their local markets and can guide you through the
homebuying process with helpful hints about everything including
current real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services
and facilities," said Ron Knollenberg, president of the
Logan County Board of Realtors. "When it comes to buying or
selling a home, a REALTORŪ
has the expertise and resources to guide you through the process."
One of the
easiest ways to narrow your search for an agent is to talk to
friends and family. In addition, you can check local listings for
REALTORSŪ
in your area or contact a local real estate agency.
"The Illinois
Association of REALTORSŪ as well as the Logan County
Board of Realtors has a variety
of consumer resources available at
www.illinoisrealtor.org
explaining the benefits of using a REALTORŪ as well as a
REALTORŪ and property search," said Ron
Knollenberg.
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Once you have
narrowed your list, you are ready to set up a listing presentation.
These interviews allow you to meet with local REALTORSŪ
to gain insight into their experience, capabilities and
personalities to determine the best match to your interests.
Some
evaluation questions include:
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Does the
agent have an active license in good standing?
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What
professional designations does he or she hold?
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Who does the
agent represent (the buyer or the seller)?
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Does the
agent belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
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What have you
listed or sold near this neighborhood lately?
Whether you are purchasing a home or selling one, there are a number
of reasons why a REALTORŪ is useful in the process. Not
only do REALTORSŪ guide you through the complex process
of buying or selling your home, but they help you determine what you
can afford and take charge of negotiating agreements.
Other benefits of using a REALTORŪ include:
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Knowledge of
the local market and zoning regulations
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Explanations
of alternative mortgage financing programs
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Advertising
your home via the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and on the Internet
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Handling
inquiries and scheduling appointments for showings
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Informing you
of potential risks and seller disclosure information
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Help with the
closing of the sale
[Text copied from file
received from the Logan County Board of Realtors]
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