Why Do I Need a Real Estate Agent?
GREAT QUESTION!
With the rise in technology, and websites like Zillow, Trulia and Realtor, one might legitimately consider the necessity of using a Real Estate Agent when buying or selling their home. Millions of homeowners are able to access 'Zestimates,' and the like, to obtain a computer-generated home value estimation. You would think this rise in technology would have put a significant dent in our industry, wouldn't you? Surprisingly, though, according to the National Association of Realtors, almost 90% of home buyers purchased their home through a real estate agent in 2016. That stat is up almost 70% from 2001.
That begs the question...why?
I speculate the answer lies in the needs confronting our clients that cannot be met through technology, alone. Although technology definitely has it's place, and should be utilized by agents and owners alike, technology is, at its core, a tool. It can help automate your home search, it can help confirm your home value, and it can make marketing your home much more effective and efficient. However, at the end of the day, technology will never replace the education, expertise, service, and connection offered by a proficient agent.
When our clients sit down to sign those closing docs, we consider it our job to make sure that they understand everything they are about to sign. We are intentional about educating our clients, so that on closing day, they feel confident concerning the value of the home they are about to buy and/or sell. We want our clients to have enjoyed the process, and most importantly, we want to make sure that when they are handed their new keys, they feel safeguarded and optimistic about the future ahead of them; a true celebration!
Technology is vital to our industry, and we are so thankful for that. But, always keep in mind that your home is perhaps the largest and most important investment in your life and portfolio. That investment deserves attention, service, and solid expertise...and you deserve peace of mind.