Role of Agent

The majority of homes sold in the United States are done with the assistance of a real estate agent. Due to the complexity of modern real estate transactions and because a house is most likely your biggest investment, it is best to be able to rely on the experience and expertise of a real estate agent. One of the main advantages of working with an agent is that your home will be listed in the Multiple Listing Service or more commonly known as the MLS. This assures that the largest number of potential buyers possible will view your home. There are three ways an agent can work. An agent can work for the buyer or for seller and agents can work for both with their written consent. While not in every state, agents can act as transaction brokers without representing either the seller or buyer. In nearly all states there are agency disclosure laws. These laws require signed consent for representation. An agent in your area can explain how the agency laws work in your state. Agent's typical responsibilities to a seller include offering sound advice for preparing the home for sale, creating a listing, showing the home to appropriate potential buyers, and guiding you through the sale transaction.