Lisa Danko

Description

A Realtor is a Real Estate Specialists. Realtor is commonly used as a generic word for real estate broker or agent, but only a member of the National Association of Realtors can be called a Realtor. The association provides advanced educational opportunities to its members, enabling them to offer accredited sub-specialties such as buyer's representation (ABR), residential real estate expertise (CRS), or Internet readiness (e-PRO) to the public. Many excellent Realtors do not have extra certifications and designations, but if you should notice letters next to an agent's name, be sure to inquire about its meaning. For their own reasons, many real estate professionals choose not to join the professional association. If you would like to work with an agent who is not a Realtor, ask about the agent's experience and specialties. When you have a Realtor as an advocate, you share some of the risk of home buying. Otherwise, it's buyer beware. You are paying the agent to assist you, advise you, and help you navigate the transaction legally and safely. Your agent will make sure you take appropriate steps to protect yourself. Incredibly, many states do not have laws or regulatory bodies in place that protect all aspects of homebuying. Only 20 states currently license or certify home inspectors, for example. Further, these and other professionals are only liable in civil suits for the amount of their fees, not for any costs incurred by the buyer for problems or repairs that were undetected before the closing. If your agent suggests that you get a structural inspection, do so for your own protection. She or he will know how an inspection should be performed and will attend the inspection alongside you.

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