You've decided to buy a home in Champaign County and you just started working with a realtor. You've seen a few homes and you aren't finding exactly what you want. You decided to drive around town on a Sunday afternoon to see if you can find some homes you might have missed, and you come across a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) property that looks perfect. Now what?Can I still have a realtor involved in the transaction? Absolutely! Contact your realtor and ask them to initiate the conversation and set up the appointment to see the home. Why? There is so much more to the home buying process than finding the home. By utilizing a realtor, you have the representation, the resources and expertise you need to get the home you really want. By hiring a realtor, you are hiring someone to represent you in the transaction and advocate for YOUR best interests. They can help you figure out what all of your options are, and they can guide you every step of the way through each step of the home buying process. Many of the folks who bought FSBOs a few years ago are the ones who have been hurt the most in this market. Many paid too much and didn't have a home inspection at the time, and they are in a bad position now while trying to sell their home. A realtor has access to market information that is not readily available or accessible to the general public. When it comes time to make an offer, we have market history and sold comparables to review to develop a strong pricing and negotiating strategy. Did you know that there are over 17 people involved in a real estate transaction? Realtors also have access to a network of resources and professionals such as lenders, attorneys, home inspectors, radon mitigators, etc... who have consistently done a great job for our clients. A realtor has the know-how and expertise to get the job done. Can a person buy a home without a realtor? Sure, but why would you? How do you handle an inspection negotiation? What do you do if a home doesn't appraise? Who do you call if you need estimates or to do repair work in a tight timeframe? What happens if termites are found?Just as you are an expert in the work you do every day, guiding people in buying and selling homes is what WE do day in and day out. Let us help you not only find a great house, but coordinate all of the behind the scenes efforts so you end up closing and getting the keys for the home of your dreams for a great price, in the time frame you desire and with the least amount of hassles
