03/13

If you’re in the midst of preparing to sell or purchase a new home, then you’ve probably realized how tiring the process can be, especially if doing it on your own.

AmeriTitle’s Seller and Buyer Checklist will provide you with some quick tips and valuable information that can help jump start your home selling or purchasing process. You don’t have to do all the work yourself.

Selecting a real estate agent can be quite staggering – after all, there are plenty to choose from! How do you know who to go with? It’s important that you choose an agent you feel comfortable with; you want an agent that can guide you through the entire home buying and selling process!

Step One: Knowing the Difference between a REALTOR® and a Real Estate Agent

All REALTORS® and Real Estate Agents are required to be licensed by the state to represent buyers and sellers in property transfers.

A REALTOR® is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, which means that he or she must uphold the standards of the association and its code of ethics.

Step Two: Following Your Guideline

You’ll want to hire an agent who is familiar with your community or the neighborhood you are wanting to move to. Think about asking these questions when looking for a real estate agent partner:

• Do you work mostly with home buyers or home sellers?
• Are you able to be reached on various platforms – email, text messaging, etc.?
• Are you a member of the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
• Are you able to provide local real estate market trends, values, and statistics?

Step Three: Remember the Who’s and the What’s

• The seller is represented by the listing agent
• The buyer is represented by the selling agent
• The selling agent is also referred to as the buyer’s agent
• Real estate commissions are usually paid by the seller