We live in a digital world. Information and entertainment is available at the click of a mouse — music, movies, clothes, and, yes, real estate. Websites like streeteasy.com and trulia.com have given would-be buyers and sellers access to listings and information that, just a few years ago, would’ve only been accessible through an agent.
So, are real estate agents becoming obsolete? Not really. Here’s why not.
1) It saves you time.
Is it possible for you to scour the Internet and find all the listings currently on the market yourself? Yes. Do you want to spend your afternoons searching listings or have time to do so? I’m willing to bet for a majority of people the answer is no. Having a real estate professional who’s familiar with what’s on the market filter out the junk and show you which listings are right for you can be a game changer. It means you’re not wasting time looking at a dark, dingy closet (the ad described it as a “quiet and charming retreat”) while someone else is putting in an offer on your dream home down the street.
2) It makes you a more informed buyer.
Real estate agents often have access to information that’s not yet public record — meaning it’s probably not available yet on streeteasy or trulia. Wanna know how much how much that place that says “in contract” really went for? It won’t be public knowledge until after the sale closes, but chances are your real estate agent can find out; they may even be involved in the sale.
3) It gives you an edge on the competition.
Buying real estate in a competitive market can be tricky. It’s not just about finding a property you love, putting in an offer, and closing the deal; it’s often more about finding a property you love, putting in an offer, finding out five other people put in offers, and being disappointed when the seller goes with someone else. A good real estate agent can coach you through the offer process and give you an edge on the competition. They know exactly what sellers are looking for and how to make your offer stand out as a winner — even if it’s not the highest.
4) It helps you navigate the complex process of buying in New York City.
Getting an accepted offer in New York City is really just the beginning. Co-ops — and a vast majority of condos — require extensive board applications be submitted and approved before perspective buyers are allowed to close. This can be a tedious, and time-sucking process. A real estate agent will not only hold your hand the entire way, they’ll actually put the application package together — a huge time-saver. And, if you’re the seller in this situation, it will give you peace of mind to know the application package is being submitted correctly and on time. After all, no one wants to take her property off the market for a month or more while working on a deal, only to receive a board turndown and be forced to start all over.