Search MLS Listings Or Use A Real Estate Agent?

Asssuming you've checked your credit rating, found a suitable mortgage lender, been pre-qualified for a mortgage loan and started searching the MLS listings - what next?

Well, perhaps even before tackling the MLS listings you might want to find a qualified real estate agent. Start interviewing suitable candidates and decide whether you want to handle things yourself or use the services of a real estate agent.

A good real estate agent will have a thorough knowledge of the local area and will know what is available and what properties are likely to sell for. It is likely that a good real estate agent will be able to locate a home more quickly than if you searched on your own.

The other advantage of using a real estate agent is that they will understand all the paperwork and procedures involved in buying a home. The real estate agent can direct you in filling out legal documents, although if you have bought and sold properties before, you will probably know what's involved. The main thing is to be thorough, seek professional legal advice with contracts and to avoid falling into real estate traps (or legal traps).

Keep searching the MLS real estate listings yourself as it will improve your knowledge of the market and what's available. However, keep in mind that a real estate agent will often get notifications of homes for sale before those homes hit the MLS real estate listings. You could get a head start on newly listed properties before other buyers even know they are for sale.