Real Estate Buyers need a Good Reliable Team

When purchasing a home it is critical to have a good team working on your side including real estate agents, home inspectors, loan officers and closing agents. Having a capable, reliable team will help your transaction go more smoothly and avoid unnecessary problems.

Good Buyer's Agents are knowledgable about current market trends and pricing conditions. They understand purchase and sale agreements thoroughly. They are up-to-date on real estate purchase rules, regulations, and basic laws. They have strong communication skills to negotiate strategically with confidence. They are ethical and diplomatic. Good agents are concientious of deadlines and keep buyers on track to meet all obligations for closing. They are organized, thorough, prompt and accessible. They keep constant communication with all parties involved because they know they are the glue that holds the sale together.

Home inspections are essential to a purchase and well worth the money spent. Even if the offer is not contingent on an inspection, it is a good idea to have one just so the buyer knows what to expect once the home is theirs. Good Home Inspectors should have experience in construction related fields or extensive knowledge of construction materials, methods and common problems. Good inpectors are thorough and should look at all aspects of the house inside and out including crawl space and attic space. Buyers should be present at inspections if possible so they can see and hear any concerns the inspector may have and ask questions. And ultimately, good inspectors will generate a complete, easy-to-understand inspection report with pictures.

Good Loan Officers are reliable, honest and available. They provide detailed Good Faith Estimates to buyers upon application so buyer's know up-front what their costs will be. They answer buyers' questions knowledgably and confidently. They are organized and efficient. Good Loan Officers are proactive, head off foreseeable obstacles, and have a back-up plan if necessary. They are good at following up with lenders, escrow officers and buyers. They are persistant, sharp and focused because they know the whole deal hinges on whether the loan is approved on time or not.

Lastly, and just as important as all the others on your team, is a good closing agent which can either be an attorney or escrow officer. Closing agents are neutral third parties responsible for collecting and processing all the paper work and funds to transfer the property. Most of the time in Washington state, it will be an escrow officer. Good escrow officers have an efficient, well-organized office. They are honest, experienced and accessible. They are thorough in making sure the paperwork is correct and communicate concerns immediately. They can account for funds on demand. They are aware of deadlines and are ready to help to meet them.

Mistakes, oversights or ignorance by any of the team members may not aways be the end of the deal but they could cause delays, unnecessarly stress, and unexpected expenses. While no one is perfect, it is better to increase your chances of a successful purchase by working with experienced, knowledgeable and reliable team members. It can make a bigger difference than you think.