If you’re here, chances are you’ve questioned whether or not you truly need a real estate agent to purchase a home. The reality of this is, although many can argue positives of purchasing a home without a real estate agent, the pitfalls can carry risks and lead to many issues that buyers may not be aware of. Buying a home is a big deal and commitment, and perhaps the most significant transaction of a person’s life! Although extremely exciting - knowing the risks of deciding to buy a home without representation could be beneficial to your long term decision. With that said, listed below are three of the biggest pitfalls our team has seen firsthand from those who choose to buy without a real estate agent.

Real Estate Agents Have Knowledge and Expertise

It’s true that just about anyone can attempt to memorize all of the basic home buying and mortgage terms in the book, but an agent or Realtor is trained to know the language and successfully educate you on the process. A good question to ask one’s self is, who would you turn to if you had a pressing question during a stressful situation? An expert in that field! Along with this, buying a home includes a handful of documentation, reports, and forms. An agent can help you manage this paperwork to avoid delays or missed steps. 

Negotiating Isn’t as Easy as it Looks

Especially if you are about to do something as significant and costly as buying a home, negotiations are important - and frankly, not always a walk in the park. Real estate agents are seasoned negotiators who know how to lead the charge in order to get you the best deal! This is based on many factors that influence a home’s value, which an agent will be educated in before going into any negotiation.

Buyers Only Have Access to so Much Information

Home buying apps and real estate sites are a hot commodity nowadays, finding up-to-date listings at any time of day is an incredible resource. Nevertheless, these resources still aren’t informed with all the homes for sale in a given neighborhood. An agent has access to listings that many of the online resources do not! We also have the inside scoop on those hidden gems around town that are for sale, and may get advanced notice on properties before they even hit the market!

And there you have it! Of course, we’d like to note that our reputable team has been in the Colorado market for ages, and although we’re a bit biased towards the expertise on our own team - these pitfalls are true to any homebuyer across the Front Range or otherwise. To navigate the real estate market, from Castle Rock to Fort Collins, with a trusted agent by your side, give us a call.