The DIY (do-it-yourself) movement experienced a surge during COVID and continued in the aftermath, as many people realized they were perfectly capable of trimming their own hair or even replacing a kitchen faucet. But some things are still best left to the professionals.

While buying or selling a home independently is plausible, most homeowners and home-seekers benefit from working with a real estate agent. Attempting to go it alone will save on commission fees, but will also increase your expenditure in other areas, such as time, effort, energy and stress. And without a thorough knowledge of the process, one can risk more significant losses.  

What does a real estate agent offer a seller? For starters, industry expertise and local market awareness. With an ear always on the ground, an agent knows whether it’s a seller’s or a buyer’s market and can provide direction on how to price your home to get the maximum return on your investment. Agents also open access to a wider pool of qualified buyers.

Agents have experience in all facets of the process, including areas that require special knowledge, such as how to stage your house to get the best viewing. To the unversed, that might seem like a minor detail; but proper staging has been shown to lead to quicker and more profitable sales (www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/why-staging-matters-even-in-a-sellers-market). 

Agents provide expert guidance while navigating the often extensive and jargon-heavy paperwork from start to finish. Agents are powerful advocates during negotiations, are equipped with negotiation strategies, and are familiar with the legalities of closing, helping to facilitate a smooth and seamless transaction. Agents often have trusted industry contacts, for ancillary services such as home inspection. Additionally – and importantly – agents can spot potential red flags and help with risk mitigation.

For the buyer, an agent offers most of the above and more, including searching for properties (which includes properties not publicly advertised), knowledge of neighborhood trends and property values, coordinating viewings, and connecting clients to lenders. 

Choosing the right real estate agent is crucial whether selling or buying a home. It’s always a good idea to solicit recommendations from friends or family, or research agents who are successful in your town. 

A DIY project can save money and boost personal satisfaction, but sometimes, without insider experience, you “don’t know what you don’t know”. Your realtor does! Peace-of-mind is priceless; so when it comes to real estate, it’s usually best to go with the pros.

Kim Foemmel

Real Estate Broker

Foemmel Fine Homes

Hopkinton, MA 

508.808.1149

[email protected]

FoemmelFineHomes.com 

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