For most first time homebuyers, the process of applying for
a mortgage and buying a home can be a very stressful time. The decision to
purchase a home is a large financial and emotional investment, which can make
it even more difficult to handle the wealth of information coming at
prospective homeowners. Hiring an experienced REALTOR®or real estate agent can go a long way towards easing the burdens of the home
buying process. Finding the best real estate agents in Brampton takes some due
diligence. It is important for homebuyers to shop around and find a real estate
agent that they can build a relationship with. Most Canadians will buy and sell
more than one home in their lifetime, which means that choosing a good real
estate agent is a decision that could pay off for years to come.
How Can a Real Estate
Agent Help?
While it may be tempting to avoid the commission fees associated with hiring a
real estate agent, buying a home is not a small investment decision. For most
people, it will be one of the biggest financial decisions they make in their
lifetime. A real estate agent will use their knowledge, skills, and expertise
to work in the best interest of their clients, helping them buy and sell homes
that meet their criteria and financial goals. Real estate agents will have
knowledge of neighbourhoods, experience negotiating deals, and access to every
home on the market via the MLS® (Multiple Listing Service),
allowing prospective homebuyers to move quick and take advantage of investment
opportunities.
What is the Cost?
Many people forget about the costs involved in hiring a real estate agent.
While there is no up front cost to worry about, hiring a real estate agent can
be expensive. Most real estate agents work on a commission basis with typical
rates ranging anywhere from 1-6%. On a $500,000 home, 6% works out to $30,000.
So, it is important to know the type of person you’ll be going into business
with. Be wary of real estate agents looking to pressure you into a quick sale.
How Long Do Homes Usually Last for on the
Market?
The real estate industry in the Greater Toronto Area is red hot at the
moment. Typically, listings can be expected to last anywhere between 10 and 90
days, however, in hotspots like Brampton, Ontario, listings are being sold in
an average of just 20 days.
Despite rising insurance premiums and changes in Canada’s mortgage rules, the
price of homes in and around the Toronto area have continued to rise. Finding
the best real estate agents in Brampton can help sell your home quickly and for
more money than the asking price. Whether buying or selling a home, an
experienced real estate agent will help take the stress out of the process,
making it easy and enjoyable for the homeowners. Before hiring a real estate
agent, be sure to ask questions and choose a person that meets your criteria.