The road to homeownership can be bumpy, and often has with unexpected turns and detours. Therefore, it makes sense to have a real estate pro help guide the way.

While real estate websites and mobile apps help you identify houses you may be interested in, an agent with experience does much more. Here are 7 reasons you need a real estate agent:

1. Guide.

   Before you tour your first home, your agent will take time to learn more about your wants, needs, preferences, budget and motivation. A good real estate agent will help you narrow your search and identify your priorities.

2. Educate.

   You should expect your agent to provide data on the local home market and comparable sales. The home-buying process can be complicated. However, a good agent will explain the steps involved in a manner that makes them understandable.

3. Network.

   An agent who is familiar with your target neighborhoods often knows about homes that are for sale – even before they’re officially listed. Experienced agents tend to know other agents in the area and have good working relationships with them; as a result this can lead to smooth transactions. Your agent may also be able to refer you to trusted professionals including home inspectors and contractors.

4. Advocate.

   When you work with a buyer’s agent, their fiduciary responsibility is to you. You have an expert who is looking out for your best financial interests, an expert who’s contractually bound to do everything in their power to protect you.

5. Negotiate.

   Your agent will handle the details of the negotiation process, including the preparation of all necessary offer and counteroffer forms. Once you finish your home inspection, the agent can also help you negotiate for repairs. Even the most reasonable consumers can become distraught when battling over repair requests; an agent can do “the ask” without becoming overly emotional.

6. Manage minutia.

   The paperwork that goes along with a real estate transaction can be exhaustive. If you forget to initial a clause or check a box, you will need to resubmit all those documents. A good real estate agent understands the associated deadlines and details and can help you navigate these complex documents.

7. Look out.

   Any number of pitfalls can kill a deal as it inches toward closing. An experienced real estate agent knows to watch for trouble before it’s too late, and can skillfully deal with challenges as they arise.

Professional real estate agents do so much more than drive clients around to look at homes. Find an agent you trust and with whom you feel comfortable working; you’re sure to benefit from their experience, knowledge of the local market and negotiation skills.

Source: zillow.com