Miami Real Estate Today News: Reasons to Hire a Realtor when Buying a Home in Miami

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions most of us will ever make. That's why a great majority of buyers in the South Florida real estate market turn to Realtors who are members of the National Association of Realtors (or NAR) and the MIAMI Association of Realtors to help them find the right home in the right neighborhood for the right price.

Some buyers, though - roughly 11 percent last year, according to the NAR - choose to go it alone, running the risk of making costly mistakes along the way. Some of the mistakes buyers typically make include skipping the pre-sale inspection, investing in a foreclosure or short sale that ends up becoming a bottomless money pit, and wasting time looking at homes that are way out of their price range.

With access to the latest tools, resources, and services available, a MIAMI Realtor can help buyers find their dream home in a short span of time. Through a MIAMI Realtor, you can search the South Florida multiple listing service (or MLS) in 19 languages and receive instant notifications when new homes are on the market.

When buying a home, a MIAMI Realtor:

1. Helps determine your buying power in the present real estate market

2. Provide access to every home that's on the market via MLS –Multiple Listing Service and all other sources, including ones that may not be listed publicly.

3. Identifies homes that best match your specific needs, including proximity to schools or work as he provides you with his expertise and Knowledge of the neighborhood.

4. Assists in the selection process by providing objective information about each property. A Realtor has the Knowledge of recent comps (comparables) — what similar properties have sold recently and for how much.

5. Helps negotiate your purchase. He will use his experience and ability to negotiate with the sellers on your behalf. Also, the inside scoop from the seller’s agent.

6. A realtor provides experience to manage the legalities of foreclosures or other distressed properties.

7. A Realtor provides the muscle to get a deal through the escrow or "under contract" period. He provides due diligence during the evaluation of the property guides you through the closing process to make sure everything goes smoothly.

8. Offers advice on different financing options and helps to identify qualified lenders and sometimes even tradesman for needed renovations.

9. Objective professional advice when you have your buyer's remorse meltdown.

Notes taken from: Miami Association of Realtors.