Why Use a REALTOR?

• Find a REALTOR
• Find a Property

Not every agent or broker is a REALTOR!
Here are the advantages of working with a REALTOR when buying or selling your home or property.

The decision to buy or sell a home or property is one of the most important ones you can make. A REALTOR has the interest, resources, and dedication to guide you through the process.

A member of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), the Illinois Association of REALTORS (IAR), and his or her local REALTOR Association, a REALTOR abides by the NAR Code of Ethics (pdf file) -- a standard of professional behavior that exceeds requirements for state licensing.

Only a REALTOR can display the REALTOR logo which is a federally registered mark licensed exclusively to the members of the National Association of REALTORS. This mark represents a high standard of professional conduct in serving the interests of clients and customers.

Purchasing a Home or Property
When purchasing a home or property, a REALTOR can help you determine what you can afford and shows you only those properties that meet your criteria. A REALTOR can explain alternative mortgage financing programs.

In addition to knowing the local money market, a REALTOR can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when applying for a loan. Already familiar with current real estate values, real estate taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, a REALTOR may also be able to respond to your questions about local zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy.

A REALTOR can research your housing needs in advance through a Multiple Listing Service even if you are locating to another city.

A REALTOR can provide you with a checklist to serve as a reminder of some things you should look for in order to make a wise buying decision.

Selling a Home or Property
A REALTOR can free a seller from the time, effort and details involving the sale of the property. They can establish the fair market value and can advise when seller financing might be in your best interest. With an interest in bringing both buyer and seller together, a REALTOR can help negotiate a satisfactory agreement between the parties. Before the first showing and beyond the final sale, you'll get the expertise and service you look for in a real estate professional who knows how to sell your home or property.

A REALTOR does a lot of homework in order to sell your home or property. The property is listed, ads are placed, inquiries are handled and appointments for showing are arranged with your convenience and best interest in mind. With the aid of a Multiple Listing Service a REALTOR can list a home or property and work with other REALTORS to assure a wider range of prospective buyers.

Continuing Education: What do those designations mean?
By hiring a REALTOR, you have secured someone who is committed to continuing education, ethics, and professionalism. In addition to following the strict Code of Ethics, many REALTORS hold one ore more professional designations -- the letters behind their name. Designations acknowledge experience and advanced expertise in various real estate sectors. For more on designations, visit the National Association of REALTORS Designations Resources