In this day and age, you can order a couch with the click of a few buttons, without ever having run your fingers along its fabric. And you can book a plane ticket to the other side of the globe without speaking to a single human.
Technology has evolved to permeate every industry in the world — real estate included. From the comfort of your phone or laptop, you can learn just about everything you need to know about a house before ever having stepped foot inside. Searching for homes is easier than ever before, with smart filters, geolocation, and other complex technologies and tools at our fingertips. But these things are just that — tools — to be used by humans.
Technology can play a significant role in a real estate transaction, but it can never replace the human aspect when it comes to buying or selling a home. To prove it to you, we’re sharing just a handful of reasons why you should always work with a Realtor when buying a home. After all, unlike a couch or a plane ticket, this is the largest purchase you will make in your lifetime — so you don’t want to settle for less-than-ideal service.
And of course, if you live in Northern Colorado, we suggest working with a Realtor at The Group!
Local Knowledge
When you choose to work with a Realtor, you are gaining access to a wealth of knowledge — about the real estate process as well as the local area. Our brokers are extremely knowledgeable about the communities they serve throughout Northern Colorado, from both a lifestyle and real estate perspective. They are able to provide a full picture of what it’s like to live in a particular area before you commit to owning a home there. They can share insight about the school district, crime rate, nearby amenities, and any potential downsides to be aware of, such as significant commercial development on the horizon. Plus, they will have an understanding of the area’s market history and can give you an idea of what you can expect down the road.
Access to MLS
You can spend as much time as you want searching for homes, but there’s nothing quite as up-to-date as the MLS, or the Multiple Listing Service. This database is where all listings live before they are fed to Zillow and other real estate home search sites. On the MLS, your agent can see a property in “preview” status before it hits the market, which means you can be ready to view it quickly and make an offer before it gets bombarded with eager buyers. Only real estate agents and other industry professionals can access the MLS.
Utilizing Tools + Technology
Besides the MLS, there are several other tools available to Realtors. These technologies create a more streamlined relationship between agents and their customers, who can communicate and collaborate easily with a click of a few buttons.
Our brokers can connect with their clients on My HomeSearch!, a tool created exclusively for The Group. Once you create an account, you will receive notifications as soon as properties that fit your criteria hit the market. You can add the homes you like to your Favorites, and easily share properties with your friends and family. Plus, you can easily communicate with your agent by adding notes about specific features you like and don’t like.
Making a Calculated Offer
In order to stand out in a competitive market, it’s vital to have an experienced real estate professional on your side. They are immersed in educational resources, such as sales meetings, conferences, and seminars that help them learn how successful offers are created. Plus, your broker will compare home values to make sure the homes you are interested in are priced appropriately. They will take all the data available, apply their expertise, and come up with a competitive offer that will help you stand out from the pack.
Your offer will include more than just the price you are willing to pay; it will contain all the details of the purchase, including who is responsible for the closing costs, what inspections will be performed, the terms of cancellation, any repairs you wish to have done, how disputes will be settled, etc. And your agent will help you put together a compelling and calculated offer!
Understanding + Handling Paperwork
From putting in an offer to signing papers on closing day, there is a lot of paperwork involved with a real estate transaction. But don’t worry! Your Realtor will handle all the paperwork for you, explaining all the important details along the way. They have gone through the buying process many times before, so they are not confused by the jargon and fine print. Plus, they will explain it to you in plain terms — on all documents, such as contracts, property disclosure forms, inspection reports, appraisal reports, and more. Their diligence and attention to detail may help you avoid any headaches or legal issues down the road!
Advocating During Negotiation
The seller may counter your offer with a different price, a later closing date, or other changes. This begins the process of negotiation that will continue until both parties either agree on a compromise or decide to go their separate ways. This is when you’ll be thankful to have a Group Realtor on your side! They are trained and skilled negotiators who will navigate this process with ease. Realtors will act as your advocate throughout the negotiation process, working tirelessly to get you the best deal with tact and persistence.
Human Connection
Although technology has permeated nearly every aspect of our lives, there is not and will never be a replacement for human connection. When you work side by side with a Realtor, you are building a connection with another human — someone who can listen to and empathize with you. Unlike a robot, a real estate agent can nod their head and smile as you describe exactly why you’re looking for a home. Maybe you’re hoping to start a family or you want more space to host your aging mother. Or perhaps you want to move closer to the mountains, where you can pursue your outdoor hobbies. Your agent will want to hear your personal story and how you envision spending this next chapter of your life.
Plus, they are available to figuratively hold your hand throughout the entire process, answering your phone calls, texts and emails with both information and support. And ultimately, your agent will be there to celebrate with you on closing day! None of these moments are possible in a transaction solely dependent on technology. You’re missing that human touch that makes the journey that much more enjoyable and personal.
Access to Professional Network
When you choose to work with a Realtor, you are not just benefiting from their expertise and experience. You are also gaining access to their entire network of professionals — companies and individuals they trust and have developed a working relationship with over the years.
The Group has a network of affiliated partners, which includes Group Mortgage, Guaranteed Title Group, Ninja Selling, and The Source Property Management. Get a one-stop shop experience so you don’t have to scramble to find various vendors to work with. Plus, our brokers often have a list of reliable home inspectors, contractors and other professionals they can recommend. And our Groupies are incredible at collaborating with one another, sharing upcoming listings internally and helping each other out in any way possible. Believe us — The Group network is strong!
Offering Emotional Support
Let’s be real: buying a home can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s likely you will experience a few disappointments along the way, which can add additional stress and anxiety — making you wonder if you’ll ever find “The One.” Thankfully, Realtors often double as part-time therapists, helping you stay positive and calm throughout the buying journey. They will remain objective and provide stability when you’re feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. Plus, they will be there for all the happy and celebratory emotions as well — and can celebrate right alongside you!
Looking for a Realtor in Northern Colorado?
The Group has a roster of Realtors working throughout Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Timnath, Windsor, and more. They are extremely knowledgeable about the communities they serve, including everything from school districts to local attractions.
Our Realtors are consistently recognized as being some of the most productive in the country. They have received the best training available in the industry and have access to the most advanced real estate technology and an unrivaled network of professionals. Contact us to get connected to one of our brokers!
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