Some Important Stuff

Why Use a REALTOR® Unlike many real estate agents who are simply licensed in North Carolina to do business, REALTORS® have taken additional steps to become members of the Wilmington Regional Association of REALTORS® and have agreed to act under and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics. REALTORS® are obligated to treat all parties involved in a real estate transaction--be it the buyer, the seller, or a cooperating real estate agent--honestly and fairly. Be sure your real estate agent is a REALTOR®. Your home probably is or may be the single largest purchase you make. The REALTOR® you choose may be the most valuable resource you choose. If you are selling your home, North Carolina law may require you to complete a Residential Property Disclosure Statement. Further, if your home was built prior to 1978, there are Federal Lead-Based Paint Regulations with which you must comply. When you sell your home, the REALTOR® will work for you as a client. You sign a contract with the agent, called a listing contract. The agent then works for you and receives a mutually agreed upon commission when the house is sold. Do you possess the time, marketing expertise, energy, and knowledge of the law necessary to successfully sell your home? If you are purchasing a home, you have the opportunity to hire a REALTOR® who will be your advocate in the real estate transaction. Today many home buyers use a buyer’s agent, a specialized REALTOR® who is the home buyer's client and works for the interests of the buyer. This makes it even more important for you to have an expert on your side looking out for your best interests. Do you have the expertise to know if the property is priced fairly in today’s market? If not, you should hire a REALTOR®. REALTORS® do more, much more than you may realize. A REALTOR® representing the Seller will help you Determine at what price to market your home Decide how to market and advertise your home for today’s buyers Become familiar with the entire home selling process. Negotiate the highest price on the best possible terms Complete a mandatory disclosure form Understand the Offer To Purchase and what the buyer is requesting Monitor the buyer’s progress on completing the steps required in the Offer To Purchase A REALTOR® representing the Buyer will help you Determine how much you can afford by placing you in contact with knowledgeable professional who lend money Become familiar with the entire home buying process Understand required forms such as the NC Residential Property Disclosure Statement and Offer To Purchase and Contract Research available property through the Multiple Listing Service Negotiate the lowest price on the best possible terms as well as possession dates and repairs Understand what documents you will need when you seek a mortgage. Find a licensed NC Home Inspector who will advise you on the condition of the property You Be the Judge! The real estate transaction may be your single largest investment. When you need tax advice, you rely upon a CPA. When you need legal advice, you rely upon an attorney. When you need automobile diagnostic advice, you rely upon a qualified mechanic. With your single largest purchase, do you want to rely upon a professional in real estate—a REALTOR®--or be a “do-it-yourselfer?”