Even though there is no legal barrier preventing someone from selling or buying real estate themselves, at least 87 per cent of people making a real estate transaction will turn to a professional, licensed Realtor for representation — and here are six important reasons why:
Protection
Your property is your most valued asset and you need to protect it. A professional Realtor understands and can explain disclosures, legalities, municipal by-law considerations, costs and more, bringing you peace of mind knowing your investment will be secure.
Ethics
Every Realtor’s competence, professionalism, honesty and integrity is accountable at several levels: provincial regulation, the Real Estate Council of BC, real estate boards, the managing brokers with whom they work, their peers, and their clients. There are several measures to address Realtors who fail to meet professional and ethical standards.
Knowledge
Realtors understand the market, the history and trends of neighbourhoods, regulations, infrastructure, pricing, financing, and the legalities required to put together a legally-binding contract. And more than anything, a Realtor’s on the ground experience cannot be duplicated by anyone.
Education and Training
Today, BC Realtors are required to take specialized training through the University of British Columbia, pass a competency exam, and meet specific requirements before they can obtain a license. Realtors are also required to take accredited courses through their Board in order to stay current with all laws, policies and practices.
Multiple Listing Service®
Only Realtors have access to the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), the single most powerful tool for buying and selling a property. Your Realtor can access extensive historical information from thousands of listings and sales to help evaluate the market for your unique circumstances.
Marketing
A professional Realtor has their finger on the pulse of what buyers are looking for today — features which may not be evident to the seller. Their daily exposure to so many different properties gives them insight on how to maximize the appeal of your property and market it effectively.