Monday, June 8, 2009

Is the Weekend the Only Time We Can Look for Homes?

My business partner Ann recently came across this question while holding open a house for sale here in Richmond, Virginia. It came from a first-time home buyer that was using the internet and news papers to look for a new home. The innocence of the question brought a smile to my face, but then I know about fifty percent of the people out there are searching for homes without the benefit of using a REALTOR®. They are not finding the properties they want, or previewing them early when they are fresh on the market, or during those times when it's most convenient for the buyer to see them.

Most people don't like to admit when they need help. As a man who rarely asks for directions, I completely understand the reluctance to concede stupidity when I should be seeking guidance. After all, I'm happy to represent myself in court, design my own house, or perform my own surgery in lieu of seeking professional counsel in these areas. The logic is so obvious - of course I can buy or sell my own home without using a Realtor, right? Well, as it turns out, the answer is yes. But perhaps the more prudent question is, should you?

As my partner likes to say, "The longer I am in this business, the more I realize there is to know about this business". I can't adequately address all the advantages of Using a Realtor in this short article, but I would like to point out two brief observations. First, statistics prove you will not be saving time or money by looking for property on your own. Secondly, if you are out there previewing homes you should already be working with a Realtor.

On average, I find it takes a person six months or more to find their home and get to closing once I make contact with them. And what's more, you run the risk of having NO representation if you choose to start looking by yourself. Do yourself a favor; consult with a Realtor when considering your next housing move. If you're lucky, you may rediscover what else is available for you to do on the weekends!


Source: John VanerSyde is an Associate Broker with Virginia Properties, A Long & Foster Company, and is also a Licensed Architect. You can learn more about John & Ann VanderSyde by visiting their website at www.InSydeHomes.com

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