You will depend on a number of housing professionals when you purchase your first home. Depending on your situation your Home Buying Team may only include a few of the following specialists.
The Real Estate Agents
As a REALTOR, I have been specially trained and licensed to sell homes and land. I specialize in matching buyers and sellers and am paid a commission from the money that the seller receives from the home sale. When one agent represents the buyer and a different agent represents the seller, the commission is usually split between the Listing Agent and the Selling Agent.
The Listing agent is the person who has a contract with the seller of a property to market the property for sale and assists the seller when offers are made through to the closing. The Selling Agent works with the buyer, to find a house that suits their needs and budget. And then assists them through the sales processes.
The Lender
Unless you are paying cash, you will need to get a home loan from a lender. The lender can be a bank, credit union, Mortgage Company, government agencies or private individuals.
The Housing Inspector
The inspector is a licensed professional who checks the structure as well as the mechanical parts of a property. He will provide a detailed report describing major problems found in the home. It is a good idea to go with the inspector when he does the inspection since he can point out some important features and give you maintenance advice on your new home.
The Surveyor
A surveyor is a licensed professional who checks the measurement so f a property and the land around it. The survey will list the legal description and will show if there are any property easements or encroachments. Your Lender will most likely require that you get a survey.
The Insurance Agent
The Insurance Agent is another licensed professional who will insure your new home to protect it from casualty and liability. This can be the same agent handles your auto insurance, and sometimes will offer you a discount when you have all your policies with him.
Marjorie Taylor, Watson Realty Corp. is a licensed Real Estate Broker and community leader representing Homes in St. Augustine. She holds the professional designations of CDPE, CRS, CSP, e-PRO, GRI, TRC and is passionate about helping clients buy and sell Homes in St. Augustine and Homes in St. Augustine Beach, Florida.
904-591-9121
www.TheBestAgentInStAugustine.com
Marjorie@MarjorieTaylor.net
View My Blog