Get a REALTOR® in Your Corner

OREA – July/August, 2007 - Considering buying or selling your home? If you’ve decided to take what may be the biggest step in your life and financial future, the first person you should consult is a REALTOR®.

A REALTOR’S® skill can guide you through the details of the complicated buying or selling process, and his or her knowledge of the housing market can help you make the best possible choice. REALTORS® are extremely dedicated individuals whose professional obligation is to serve the best interests of their clients. So, why are they so uniquely qualified to serve your home ownership needs, and what does it take for these individuals to become real estate professionals?

To become a licensed real estate professional in Ontario, applicants must undergo an extensive training program developed by the Ontario Real Estate Association. The program consists of three phases of progressing difficulty, all of which must be completed before an individual can apply to the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) for a probationary real estate licence. 

If approved, the real estate salesperson must then apprentice under the guidance of a broker for the next two years. Three more in-depth courses must also be completed. These 'articling' courses deal with property law, the principles of appraisal and mortgage financing. As well, licensed REALTORS® are required to take ongoing continuing education courses in order to maintain their license. This extensive training requires dedication and hard work, and makes Ontario REALTORS® among the most qualified in Canada.

Most real estate professionals in our province are members of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and only members of OREA can call themselves REALTORS®. When you deal with a REALTOR®, you can expect not only strict adherence to provincial laws, but also adherence to a Code of Ethics. And that code is very important to you because it assures you will receive the highest level of service, honesty and integrity.

What You Get

While rigorous training makes a REALTOR® very valuable -- his or her expertise extends into every aspect of home ownership. REALTORS® know how best to sell or buy a home, and their intimate knowledge of the real estate market will ensure that you get the best price possible. They can also clarify any legal terminology or government regulations for you.

For sellers, REALTORS® develop a marketing plan that can include scheduling open houses, placing advertising in print and online and listing your property on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®). They can pre-screen buyers so that only those who are truly interested and qualified view your home.

When it comes time to negotiate a price, a REALTOR® can act as a mediator between you and the buyer. This will allow you to remain at 'arm's length' during the often stressful negotiation process.

In addition, only REALTORS® have access to the MLS® which provides details on a wide range of properties. Assistance in evaluating financing options and mortgage rates is another helpful service REALTORS® provide.

REALTORS® work hard to determine exactly what you want in a home, and will go to extraordinary lengths to meet your needs. Before you take that big leap into the world of home ownership, do yourself a favour and talk to a REALTOR® first.


This article is provided by local REALTORS® and the Ontario Real Estate Association for the benefit on consumers in the real estate market.

 

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