Four Reasons to Use a Real Estate Agent

By Tristan Hooker/MediaPA

The housing market is as tough as it’s ever been in the Waikato.  Whether you’re buying or whether you’re selling, you might think a good way to keep your expenses down is by using the do-it-yourself approach and excluding the middle man – the agent.

Emily Hunt, real estate agent with Lodge Real Estate in Hamilton, says there are good reasons you should always use an agent, whether buying or selling.

Here are Emily’s top four reasons for using an agent:

 Industry knowledge:  Real Estate Agents have been through appropriate training and are skilled in their profession.  If you’re not a trained real estate agent you’re not going to know all the ins and outs of the industry.  “Your agent will have good industry knowledge,” says Emily, “resulting in informed advice to guide you to the property that will suit you best.”

An agent will be held accountable for any mistakes:  If you’re trying to go it alone, you’re taking on all the risk yourself, putting yourself under unnecessary pressure.  “People usually feel more comfortable buying from a registered agent than a private sale,” says Emily. “We have a lot to lose if it goes wrong, including jail time and fines.  A properly trained agent is skilled at negotiating, getting you the best offer possible, both as a buyer and seller.  This means a less stress and fuss and a better outcome for both sides.”

An agent knows where to look to help find you the home you want:  Not all homes for sale are listed online or in the brochures generally available to the public.  Having an industry insider on your team gives you a definite advantage.   “In a competitive market like this”, says Emily, “an agent can get you to the listings that sell before they go online.”

An agent has many more contacts within their network than you’re likely to have:  Emily says, “not only does an agent know how to best sell your home and for how much.  An agent also has contacts and buyers ready to buy your home as well as colleagues with buyers.  Going with an agent in a big company, such as Lodge, is vital.”

Emily says if you are considering buying or selling, find an agent who you feel comfortable with and stick with them for the best outcome.

“If anyone has any questions, I’m happy to meet with them and have a friendly chat about their needs,” says Emily.  “As an Agent I’m here to work with my clients and help them achieve their goals.”

Contact Emily Hunt:

Office: Lodge Real Estate Dinsdale

Address: Dinsdale Shopping Centre, 35 Whatawhata Road

Email: emilyh@lodge.co.nz

Phone B: 07 847 7800

Mobile: 022 064 2896

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilyhuntlodge

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