The Best Way to Find an Apartment: An Actual Real Estate Agent

We live in a digital world where websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Craigslist, and Trulia can give you access to a seemingly endless database of apartments and homes for rent and for sale. It may be tempting to try to avoid paying realtor fees, but it could be a costly choice in the long run. Online marketplaces certainly have their place in helping buyers and renters do preliminary research. But, there are numerous reasons why consulting a real estate agent is still the best choice.

Simplify your home search 

One of the biggest reasons to work with a real estate agent, whether you’re looking to buy or rent, is because it will truly make your life easier. Even with the help of an agent, finding a new home can be a time-consuming process. Potential homebuyers or renters have to take the time to research potential properties, attempt to schedule a time to meet with the owners or property managers, tour homes, make an offer, and arrange their finances. Let an agent take the bulk of the research, coordinating, negotiating, and paperwork off your plate. An agent can oftentimes show you multiple listings in the same day at a time that works with your schedule. Your time is valuable! Senné’s licensed realtors are here to help facilitate your home search process. 

Access is important 

Not every home that’s for sale makes it to Zillow. Over the years, real estate professionals make connections with property owners, gaining exclusive rights over leasing or selling a property. Even if a seller intends to eventually list their property on the open market, they often ask their trusted agents to float their home around to potential buyers in what is called an off-market deal. To gain access to any of these properties, you need to be working with a well-connected real estate agent. Doing all your own research could lead to potentially missing out on your perfect property.

Understand the market

Many homes and apartments are often listed well above market value. Every seller wants to get the most out of their home sale. It takes an experienced real estate agent to know what the true market value is for each property and ensure you don’t overpay. “Zestimates” take very little into consideration and can often give sellers an inflated or unrealistic expectation of value. Agents who are regularly processing transactions have the most up-to-date information and precise market data. Working with a licensed real estate professional means you won’t spring for an overpriced property.  

Negotiating is tricky 

Negotiation is one of the most important services a real estate agent can provide you with. Many renters and buyers don’t realize how much negotiation goes on behind the scenes between an agent and the property owner. After years of practice, agents know exactly what to ask for and how to ask for it. Often, renters don’t even realize that they have the power to make requests. Negotiating isn’t just about getting the price knocked down. A good agent knows when and how to negotiate things like renovations or even the timeline of a lease. 

Contracts are critical 

The final step before you can move into your new home or apartment is to sign the contract. Whether it’s a purchase agreement or a lease, real estate agents work with these documents every day. A realtor will be able to immediately determine if the contract you’re being asked to sign is standard issue and can ensure that there aren’t any unreasonable requests or stipulations. Contracts are there to protect you and your investment. It’s important that you have any contract looked at by a real estate professional to guarantee you’re getting into a fair agreement. 

There’s no need to completely stop using Zillow, and other online marketplaces, during the research phase of your home buying process. They can be great resources for you to get a better idea of what property is right for you. But there is no substitute for having a real estate agent in your corner to make sure you’re getting a good deal. 

If you’re in the market for a new home, contact one of Senné’s experienced real estate agents today at senneresidential.com.