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You be the judge

Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Transactions today usually exceed $100,000. If you had a $100,000 income tax problem, would you attempt to deal with it without the help of a CPA? If you had a $100,000 legal question, would you deal with it without the help of an attorney? Considering the small upside cost and the large downside risk, it would be foolish to consider a deal in real estate without the professional assistance of a REALTOR!

Ron Schmeadick, CRB, is Co-Owner and Associate Broker at

Realty Executives, Eugene, Oregon.

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What a Real Estate Agent Can Do for You?

The Agent you work with could be one of your most valuable resources.

· An AGENT can help you determine how much home you can afford. Often a REALTOR can suggest ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods.

· An AGENT, in addition to knowing the local money market, also can tell you what personal and financial data to bring with you when you apply for a loan.

· An AGENT is already familiar with current real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, and may be aware of local zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy.

· An AGENT can usually research your housing needs in advance through a Multiple Listing Service--even if you are relocating from another city.

· An AGENT can show you only those homes best suited to your needs--size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools, transportation, shopping and other personal preferences.

· An AGENT often can suggest simple, imaginative changes that make a home more suitable for the buyer and the seller, improving its utility and value.

· An AGENT is sensitive to the importance you place on this major commitment you are about to make. Look for a real estate professional to facilitate negotiation of a win-win agreement that will satisfy both the buyer and the seller.