You're prepared and ready to purchase a home. Now it's time to go out into the market place and find it. Will you use a real estate agent to help you look, or will you look on your own?

For practically everyone, it's worthwhile to use a real estate agent. The benefits of using an agent are numerous.

Advantages of using a real estate agent

A good agent builds a career by creating repeat customers and earning referrals. To that end, she does everything possible to make your home-buying experience as pleasant as possible. An agent is expert in her market. She knows (or can find) everything you want and need to know about the community.

An agent will:

• Arrange access to homes for you to preview
• Accompany you on your tour of homes
• Research the neighborhood, including market values
• Draft the offer to purchase
• Negotiate with the seller
• Arrange inspections
• Abide by all local, state and federal laws
• Help you obtain financing
• Review all closing documents for correctness
• Follow up after closing to make sure you're move-in is accomplished smoothly

Finding and keeping a good agent

Finding a Real Estate Agent whom you can trust and enjoy working with may require some effort. When you find the right person, stick with them. Give them the same respect and consideration you would expect. When an agent knows that they have your loyalty, they will do their best job for you.