JOSEPH SCROFANI JD - COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME

need(s).

RESEARCH LICENSING

Your state will have a license board for all active Realtors® and agents, which you can easily access. You will also be able to see their contact information, disciplinary actions, complaints, or any other information you’ll need to help influence your decision — especially since most information is now posted online.

RESEARCH THEIR BUSINESS ACTIVITY

Learning the type of market presence a real estate agent has is the best way to figure them out. Ideally, you will want an agent specializing in one or two real estate markets and understanding which homes and amenities are available within your price range. You can unearth this information by asking them or the state licensing authority if you’re uncomfortable with asking the agent directly. You’re better off with an agent actively engaged in one area and price range—e.g., residential homes around the $350,000 to $450,000 range or the $450,000 and up range.

GOING THE BUYER'S AGENT ROUTE

So, you’re ready to take the plunge and look for a place to call “home.” To get the most out of it, use a buyer’s agent to avoid paperwork, stampedes of buyers competing for the same property, and other challenges. Home buying can be exciting but also complex and stressful — so having a pro by your side can make an enormous difference. As discussed, you’ve probably heard of buyer’s agents, seller’s agents, listing agents, and so on. You’re a buyer, so what’s a

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