In today's real estate market, it is important to work with the right real estate agent to help you buy or sell a home or commercial property. The market moves fast after all! According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2021, the typical home sold was on the market for just one week. In March 2022, the median days our listings were on the market was between 6-19 days!
This rapid pace can be jarring for buyers and sellers — working with an agent ensures you are informed and prepared for every stage of the real estate buying or selling process.
Working With An Agent is the Preferred Choice for Buyers & Sellers
In their 2021 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, the NAR reported: 87% of buyers purchased their homes through a real estate agent or broker. 90% of sellers worked with a real estate agent when selling their home Working with a licensed real estate agent provides you with the guidance and insight you need to buy/sell a home or property for the right price, complete necessary paperwork, attract buyers/scope out listings, prepare the home for sale, and more.
Know the Difference Between an Agent, Broker & REALTOR®
To folks outside of the real estate industry, the terms real estate agent, broker, and REALTOR® may be used interchangeably. However, each title carries different qualifications and training. An agent, broker, and REALTOR ® can all help you buy or sell a home, but their title speaks to their level of professional experience.
Real Estate Agents
A real estate agent is licensed to help clients buy, sell, and rent real estate. To obtain their license an agent must complete a certain level of coursework and pass an exam. Real estate agents must work for a real estate broker or brokerage firm.
Real Estate Brokers
Real estate brokers are real estate agents who have completed additional training to obtain their real estate broker license. Unlike real estate agents, a broker can oversee other agents, work under a managing broker, or operate independently of a brokerage firm.
REALTORS®
A REALTOR® is a real estate agent or broker who maintains a membership with the National Association of REALTORS®. This membership means they must comply with the NAR’s strict Code of Ethics. Not every real estate agent or broker is a REALTOR®. Additionally, a REALTOR® may also have certifications for certain areas of real estate. This includes:
- CRS (Certified Residential Specialist): Completed additional training in handling residential real estate
- ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative): Completed additional training in representing buyers in transactions
- SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist): Completed training aimed at helping buyers and sellers aged 50 and older
Local Market Knowledge Matters
At Burns & Ellis REALTORS, we are proud to represent buyers and sellers in residential and commercial real estate transactions. Since 1966, we have offered our clients a results-driven and personalized experience. As a locally-owned and operated agency, our agents have an in-depth knowledge of the Dover, DE, real estate market, and insight that only comes from living, working and giving back to our communities year after year. Working with an agent who understands the history, property values, and trends in a given market is essential for making your real estate journey a success.
Choose An Agent Who Plays to Their Strengths
Additionally, it is critical to work with an agent with experience in your type of transaction. While any licensed real estate agent can help you buy or sell either residential or commercial property, working with an agent who has a proven track record with a certain type of transaction can work in your favor. For instance, an agent who is experienced in representing sellers (the listing agent) will have insight into how to properly list and market your home and negotiate the terms of the sale. A listing agent should be adept at helping clients arrange for home appraisals, coordinate showings, and most importantly, attract the right kind of buyers. An agent representing a buyer (the selling agent), will work to help their client narrow down their home search, can help initiate mortgage pre-approvals, help iron out a buyer’s budget and financing options, and identify properties that fit the client’s specific criteria.
A Good Reputation — and Listening — Goes A Long Way
Buying or selling a home or property is one of the biggest investments you make in your life, put your trust in an agent with strong references and a solid reputation. A good agent will listen to your needs and dreams, and work with you to find realistic solutions. As you’re completing your search for the right agent, take into account how long they have been in the industry and how often they help complete transactions. A full-time agent working for a long-standing brokerage is likely going to have more local, up-to-the-minute market knowledge than someone who works part-time as a real estate agent. In addition to evaluating an agent’s experience, it is also a good idea to take a look at their reviews and references. Ask your prospective agent to provide you with contact information for some of their more recent clients, or take a look at their Google My Business page, website, Zillow, or other online listings to gain clarity on their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Buying or Selling a Home in Dover, DE? Choose Burns & Ellis REALTORS®
Burns & Ellis is Central Delaware’s oldest real estate firm for a reason — we care! Our agents strive to offer each client individualized services and represent your best interests through every stage of the process. We are proud of our reputation for fair, honest services underlined with integrity. To start your buying or selling process, we encourage you to contact us today at 302-674-4220.