We will help you narrow the field by defining the needs and preferences you desire in your new home.
We will introduce you to several lenders and assist you with determining the financing options that best fit your needs.
We will search the Multiple Listings Service for properties that best meet your criteria and specifications; as well as set appointments to preview the properties together.
We will research and help you with an offering price to include terms, conditions and concessions. We will also write the offer, deliver it to the listing agent in a timely fashion and assist/advise you during the negotiation of the contract.
We will provide you with a list of reputable building inspectors and title companies so you decide who deserves your business.
We will set an appointment and attend the inspection and closing with you.
The most important consideration in the buying process is your wants, needs, goals, and expectations.
Why Use a Realtor? - St. Louis Association of Realtors
The Buying Process
The process of buying a home or investment generally starts with determining your buying power; that is, your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity. If you give a real estate agent some basic information about your available savings, income and current debt, he/she can refer you to lenders best qualified to help you. Most lenders -- banks and mortgage companies -- offer limited choices.
Finding
Once you know how much you can and want to invest, the next step is to find the properties that most nearly fit your needs. This is the time to choose a real estate licensee. When selecting a real estate agent, look for one who is also a Realtor. A Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors, a real estate trade association, and all members agree to abide by a 17 article Code of Ethics. A Realtor has many resources to assist you in that search. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your agent to find all available properties.
Selecting
Your job is to make the final selection of the right property for you. This is when excitement and emotion run high. Your real estate agent can assist you in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. Agents who are Realtors have access to a variety of informational resources. Realtors can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools, etc. There are two things you will want to know. First, will the property provide the environment you want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have a resale value when you are ready to sell?
Negotiating
There are a myriad of negotiating factors, including, but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and often the inclusion or exclusion of repairs and furnishings or equipment. The purchase agreement should also provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required.
Due Diligence
With a negotiated agreement in hand, it is time to complete the evaluation of the property. Depending on the area and property, this could include inspections for termites, dry rot, asbestos, faulty structure, roof condition, septic tank and well tests, just to name a few. Your agent can assist you in finding qualified responsible professionals to do most of these investigations and provide you with written reports. You will also want to see a preliminary report on the title of the property. Title indicates ownership of property and can be mired in confusing status of past owners or rights of access. The title to most properties will have some limitations; for example, easements (access rights) for utilities. Your agent, title company or attorney can help you resolve issues that might cause problems at a later date.
Financing
As soon as you are reasonably sure the property is right for you, the process of obtaining financing begins. Your agent can help out in understanding different financing options and in identifying qualified lenders.
Closing or Settlement
Finally, there is the closing, or settlement, as it is known in different parts of the country. Every area has its own unique customs. In some areas, the title or escrow company will handle this process. In other parts of the country, an attorney does it all. Again, your real estate agent can guide you through this process and make sure everything flows together smoothly. - St. Louis Association of Realtors.
The Top 8 Reasons For Using a Professional Real Estate Agent
Working with a real estate professional can save you time and stress. It is of utmost importance that you feel comfortable with your real estate professional and can communicate effectively with him/her. A relationship that is built on open and honest communication can assist your real estate professional in finding the right home for you.
Here are some of the services that a Rhodes Realty Service real estate professional will provide...
1. Work with you to find properties that meet your specific requirements such as location, price and amenities
2. Arrange for appointments and show you the properties selected
3. Provide you with information regarding the price and value of properties
4. Provide knowledge of the current real estate market and how it relates to your property purchase
5. Educate you regarding the purchase agreement
6. Prepare an offer to purchase
7. Assist in the negotiation of your selected property
8. Refer you to professional services providers for:
• Building/Environmental Inspections
• Well, Septic/Sanitary Inspections
• Legal Services
• Mortgage Services
• Home Owners Insurance
• Home Protection Plans
• Title Services