hire an agent, your agent can put together a CMA and let you know the actual value of your home based on comparable recent sales in your area. • Deed scams where they sign things over. According to LifeLock.com, “one little known aspect of identity theft is deed fraud. Deed fraud occurs when someone steals your identity, forges your name on a deed, and takes title to your home. While it may seem that it should be a simple matter to get your home back after becoming a victim of deed fraud, nothing in the law is very simple.” Deed scams often seem to target those who are entering their senior years. • Phony home repair services and contractors who steal and try to take advantage of you and significantly overcharge you for fees and services. But a reputable real estate agent will have contacts with top-rated professionals that you can trust. • Fraudulent mortgage notices saying your home is at risk of foreclosure, or asking you to turn over money or give personal information, when this isn’t even the case. But if you are working with a real estate agent, they can guide you and protect you from this and other such scams. Remember, a professional real estate agent gives you the ultimate advantage as a buyer. They are advocates; it’s their job to protect, to guide, and advise. They can make all the difference in helping you find the right home, negotiate a fantastic deal that essentially negates the commission fee, and navigate the complicated parts of the home-buying process. Buyers have little risk when working side-by-side with an experienced agent. Here are some other reasons to hire a professional real estate agent: 165
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