What The Heck Does A Realtor Do?

Do you know what a realtor does, besides showing you houses and collecting a commission check? Belton Jennings, CEO of the Orlando Regional Realtors Association has compiled a list of 180 typical actions, research steps, procedures, processes and review stages in a successful real estate transaction. These services are normally provided by full service real estate brokerages in return for their sales commission. I will list a few of these steps for your review.

Make appointments with sellers for listing presentations
Research all comparable currently listed properties
Research sales activity for the past 12 months from MLS and public records
Download and review property tax roll information
Prepare Comparable Market Analysis to establish fair market value
Compile and assemble formal file on property
Offer pricing strategy based on professional judgement & interpretation of market
Present and discuss strategic master marketing plan
Measure interior room sizes
Review current title information
Verify current loan information with lender(s)
Prepare showing instructions for buyers agent
Discuss possible buyer financing alternatives and options
Explain benefits of Home Owner Warranty to seller/buyer
Arrange for installation of yard sign
Add property to company's Active Listings list
Take photo's of home for MLS and Internet use
Have extra key made for lock box
Assist seller with completion of Sellers Property Disclosure
Enter property data into MLS data system
Create print and Internet ads with seller's input
Order Just Listed postcards
Provide Special Features brochures and brochure box
Negotiate all offers submitted
Help buyer find financing options
Order and attend all inspections
Work with Title company to insure clear title
Schedule closing time and location
Ensure all parties have all forms and information needed to close the sale
Forward closing documents to absentee seller as requested
Respond to any follow up calls and provide any addl information required by office

As you can see there are many little details that must be completed for the sale to close successfully. As a realtor I know what needs to be done and when it must be done. There is much more to selling or buying a home then just looking at 15 homes and then moving in. Let your real estate professional walk you through the details and make the transaction as smooth as possible. The old saying is right "THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS"