Your neighbor lets you know that they plan on listing their home. However, they also inform you that you can purchase it for a certain price before it goes on the market. You are very interested, but the question is: do you need to hire an agent? In today’s article, we are going to discuss the reasons why you need a real estate agent.

Yes or No

According to Realtor.com, 89% of all real estate transactions in 2023 used the services of a real estate agent. Technically, you are not required to have a real estate agent represent you in buying or selling a property. However, it is not recommended for most transactions. So, the short answer is you don’t have to hire a real estate agent, but today we are going to explore the reasons why you should.

To further support that you should hire a real estate agent, here is a video from Ramsey Solutions. Dave Ramey fields a variety of phone calls from people all over the country on his show. In this video, he talks to a man who has an opportunity to purchase a home before it officially goes on the market. And, Mr. Ramsey responds that he should get a real estate agent to represent his interests.

Why You Should Hire an Agent

First, buying a home or property is one of the biggest purchases of a person in their lifetime. Between price negotiations, legal contracts, and knowledge of the local market, most people do not have the skills or experience to represent themselves well. The majority of people need to hire a capable and experienced agent to represent them throughout the home buying process.

Secondly, agents are required to show their clients a fiduciary duty. Investopedia defines fiduciary duty as, “A fiduciary accepts legal responsibility for duties of care, loyalty, good faith, confidentiality, and more when serving the best interests of a beneficiary.” This duty imposes the highest standard of care.  A licensed real estate agent will advocate for their client regardless if they are a seller or buyer. You will want to have an advocate in this process.

Another reason to hire a real estate agent is that they will give you an objective perspective. Often sellers and buyers get emotionally involved. However, an objective, unemotional perspective will help ground your emotions throughout the transaction process.

Of course, there are many more reasons that you should consider hiring a real estate agent.  To read more, click here. Additionally Ramsey Solutions vets real estate agents throughout the country. Take the guess work out of hiring one by choosing a Ramsey Trusted Pro like Mike Goins. If you are looking for one in the Lake Conroe area, call Mike. He would love to talk to and serve your real estate needs. Regardless of who you hire, you do need a real estate agent to represent your needs.