Some say hire an agent right away, some say wait. Who Is Right?

Who is Right?

When entering into selling your house or buying a house, some say, "you should hire an agent first thing" and some say, "start on your own." Which way is best?

Going It Alone (at first)
Benefits:

Many buyers like to get comfortable with their research before they jump into working with an agent right away. And many sellers like to tour open houses and review ads, articles and overall marketing of other homes before they call in an agent to give them their advice.

Doing the upfront footwork and research on your own will give you strong indication of wants that you can communicate more effectively when you do hire an agent.

Today's home buyers and home sellers are informed and knowledgeable. Thanks to the internet and great sites like Realtor.com, Zillow.com, Trulia.com, RE605.com and more, the public has many of the tools necessary to get a good start on their real estate goal.

Negatives:

You could get inundated with varying advice from friends, family, agents you meet at opens. This information overload can cause "goal paralysis." In addition, sometimes unsolicited advice is like a back-handed compliment...the intent may be well-meaning, but it can be much more insulting than helpful.

Hire an Agent from the Start

Benefits:

An agent can provide you with advice, insight and hookups that will give you an advantage from the get go.  They can guide you step by step through the process. They can share their experience with who the best lenders are and what programs may benefit you the most when searching or selling homes.

Agents often are aware of brand new listings days before the general public sees this. The multiple listing service and agent word of mouth promote far more properties than advertisements do.

Agents doing the leg work get the process done more quickly and efficiently.

Negatives:

Don't be in a hurry. You'll want to be selective on which agent you choose. Make sure they are a good-fit, have a strong work ethic and are available at times you need them. Also, take some time to interview the agent and make sure they understand your goals and criteria to make sure they will work with your plans. You don't want to find yourself frustrated and not communicating with your agent.


Who is Right? 
If you take the time to consider the process before you even start at all, you'll be right.

Call, text or email John Maurer "The Agent" at 605-521-1183, john@realestateretrievers.com.