3 Reasons Why It Is Not a Good Idea to Use the Same Realtor for Buying and Selling in a Move
Moving from one place to another can be a difficult proposition. If the move is from one city or state to another, it can be even more trouble to get everything done. Many people will try to shortcut the process by using the same Realtor for both selling their old home and buying another. Here are 3 very good reason s why that is a bad idea.
1. Buyers’ Agent vs. Sellers’ Agent
A Realtor generally works as either a buyers’ agent or a sellers’ agent. At the very least, most Realtors have the bulk of their experience as one or the other. The best move you can make is to get the best person for each job. Your buying specialist will know and help you with all the details of choosing, inspecting, and dealing on a home you are purchasing. The sellers’ agent will know the best ways to put your old home on the market, prepare it for sale and make that kind of deal. Let each expert shine.
2. Knowledge of Location
It is always best to work with a Realtor who has personal knowledge of the city, and especially the state where you want to live. They can then help you find the best neighborhoods, the best schools, and the best areas for transportation. They are more likely to know people who are looking to buy or sell homes in that location than someone who is working from afar.
3. Knowledge of Local Rules
A long distance move usually entails working with different laws, rules and regulations in buying or selling a home. In selling the home, you will need to be sure you have satisfied all the local requirements for inspections, disclosures, and other paperwork. As a buyer, you will want to make sure you are getting the full rights that are afforded to you in the locale you are moving to. Unless one Realtor works in both locations, it makes sense to use two separate people or agencies.
When to Break This Rule:
Every rule has a breaking point, and this rule is no different. There are some times when using one Realtor can actually help the move go more smoothly. For example, if you are moving from house to house within a metropolitan area, one Realtor would probably have enough knowledge of the place and laws to guide you well in both areas. Then, a quick move may be easier to accomplish because your one Realtor is orchestrating both the sale of the old and the purchase of the new so that they can happen as close together in time as possible.
Learn about the background, qualifications, and locality awareness of each Realtor before you sign on. In the end, only you can make the decision to use one Realtor or to use two completely separate Realtors for buying and selling your properties in a move.
