Purchasing a home is a significant financial decision, one that offers great reward. However, if not approached correctly, it is one that could lead you to overpay for the house or buy a house that has major issues. Before starting your house hunt, consider some of the risks you face when you skip the real estate agent and decide to go it alone.

Home Buying Pitfalls a Real Estate Agent Helps You Avoid

1. Overpaying

A real estate agent is an invaluable resource when it comes to negotiating a deal on your dream home. They have inside knowledge on comparable sales for the area and can recommend the best initial offer. Without an agent, you'll be left to figure out an offer price on your own. As a result, you could end up offering too much for the house. Not only that, agents know the types of closing costs they can request the seller to pay. Having the seller pay some of your closing costs could save you money on the deal.

2. Major Issues

Some states do not require sellers to disclose issues with the house. Imagine the distress this could cause when you get to the closing table only to discover a significant issue that would have made a difference in your decision. Real estate agents can help you schedule inspections before closing so that you can be sure the home is in acceptable condition. 

3. Missing Out on Huge Opportunities

Who's to say the home you are making an offer on is truly your dream home? When you go it alone, you could be missing out on homes that you didn't discover during your search. Agents have access to many databases that show them a wider variety of properties than what you may find on your own. Also, not all homes are placed on the market. Some sellers instead decide to allow a real estate agent to market the property privately. Without an agent, you won't have access to these homes.

You don't have to face these issues alone when you enlist the help of a real estate agent. Before starting your next home search, call Top Realtor Justyna Johnson. Serving Woodbury and the surrounding areas, Justyna has the knowledge and skill to help you land the home of your dreams. This top agent provides a complimentary home stager and a handy-man for quick fixes. Call her today at (651) 501-2345 to begin the search for your dream home. You can also visit her website to schedule an appointment.