Sunshine247.com - What is a Realtor?

As you no doubt have concluded, the real estate business is becoming increasingly complex, with rapid changes and constant pressures. A real estate brokerage firm is only as good as its reputation, and a good reputation can result only from a history of ethical business practices. Because just one unethical person in a firm may destroy years of honest effort by others, ethical service is the only focal point around which a lasting reputation and career can be built. I strive for individual ethical conduct and strive to maintain a high standard of ethical professionalism within our industry.

When I serve as a single agent, a fiduciary relationship of trust and confidence exists between me and the seller or the buyer as principal. My duties are dealing honestly and fairly; loyalty; confidentiality; obedience; full disclosure; accounting for all funds; skill, care and diligence in the transaction; presenting all offers and counteroffers in a timely manner, and disclosing all known facts that materially affect the value of real property.

How a real estate agent can help you

If you are currently in the market for your first home, you may be curious as to how a Real Estate Agent can help you. You are about to be making an important decision for your future, a great investment of both money and time. I have a wealth of experience helping first time buyers like you make sound, informed decisions.

Here are some ways that you can benefit from the help of a real estate professional:

Agents can help establish a plan for a home that fits your needs. Style, size, amenities, and other preferences will help determine what kind of home is best suited for you.
They will help you to determine realistic spending limits. They can often explain alternative financing options or introduce you to a mortgage counselor. Agents can arrange to have you “pre-approved”, which can help improve your positioning in negotiations.
Their access to all home listings within the multi-listing system enables them to evaluate based on your affordability and the qualities you desire.
They have access to information on taxes, real estate values, utility costs, and municipal services, all of which can aid you in your decision to buy.
They provide direct service by working for you as a buyer’s agent, helping to negotiate the best terms and price for you.
They can make you comfortable with the closing process and they will obtain closing figures in advance for your review.
They can recommend home inspectors, pest inspectors, and surveyors, and can help arrange inspections.

These are just a few ways that a quality real estate agent can help you in your journey towards buying your very first home. More information for first time buyers can be found on my website or by calling me directly.

The world of real estate can seem like an intimidating place. Whatever your particular need, a real estate professional such as myself can help you navigate these potentially hazardous waters. I pride myself not only on my professionalism, but also on my ability to understand my clients’ needs. I’ve always felt that to help someone you must first build a relationship. The relationship you have with your real estate agent can be a valuable one indeed! I’m confident that I can provide the kind of exceptional service that will make this process an exciting one. Please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me with any questions you may have.

A Realtor defined by the Florida Real Estate principles, practices and law is a real estate broker who is a member of a local board of Realtors and is affiliated with the state association (Florida Association of Realtors) and the National Association of Realtors (not synonymous with “real estate agent). A Realtor also is a professional requiring knowledge of real estate values, experience in dealing with the public, plus exceptional personal integrity and character as qualifications to act as advisors and agents for members of the public.

Beginning in the early 1900’s, real estate began to change from an unorganized and suspect business to a semi profession with standards. In the 1920’s the Florida Legislature created laws to establish a real estate commission charged with the responsibility of administering and enforcing real estate licensing. Today each candidate for a real estate salesperson’s or broker’s license must meet educational and administrative requirements.

As a Realtor and an agent for Re/Max, I strive to achieve standards set forth by Realtors today and those before me. The real estate business consists of five major functions: (1) real estate brokerage, (2) development and construction, (3) investment, (4) operations, and (5) governmental service. The vast majority of real estate licensees are active in real estate brokerage, which includes residential, commercial, and industrial sales, among other sales specialties. All levels of government play influential roles in all aspects of the real estate industry. True professionals in real estate seek out membership in organizations that offer members educational programs, trade publications, and other services designed to benefit the individual, the industry, and the public.