As home sales surge in the Mid Hudson Valley, as a reaction to leaving densely populated areas amidst the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to make sure you are working with a REALTOR®. With a slew of new rules and regulations pertaining to COVID-19 changing nearly daily, ensuring you have a trustworthy, knowledgeable REALTOR® who is aware of these changes will help make this new normal of home buying and selling a smooth process. Read on to learn more about The REALTOR® Difference with Ulster County Board of REALTORS® today!

In addition to having up to date information, REALTORS® who are members of the UCBR are also members of the NAR, and have to adhere to a stricter code of ethics versus Real Estate Agents. Not only can you ensure you will be treated fairly, but also your REALTOR® will have knowledge and tools that agents may not have. Here’s the REALTOR ® difference: 

Ethical treatment. Every REALTOR® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a REALTOR® ‘s client, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. The first obligation is to you, the client.

An expert guide. Buying a home usually requires dozens of forms, reports, disclosures, and other technical documents. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved, so you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.

Objective information and opinions. REALTORS® can provide local information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. They also have objective information about each property. REALTORS® can use that data to help you determine if the property has what you need. By understanding both your needs and search area, they can also point out neighborhoods you don’t know much about but that might suit your needs better than you’d thought.

Expanded search power. Sometimes properties are available but not actively advertised. A REALTOR® can help you find opportunities not listed on home search sites and can help you avoid out-of-date listings that might be showing up as available online but are no longer on the market.

Negotiation knowledge. There are many factors up for discussion in a deal. A REALTOR® will look at every angle from your perspective, including crafting a purchase agreement that allows enough time for you to complete inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase.

Up-to-date experience. Most people buy only a few homes in their lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. Even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS® handle hundreds of transactions over the course of their career. They’ll also have updated information regarding any changes to the Real Estate Market in response to COVID-19. 

Your rock during emotional moments. A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most people, property represents the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions in your life, so making sure you are working with a REALTOR® who is well versed and has incredibly valuable experience in ensuring you make all the right decisions will save you the headache that could be without experienced help in the home buying process. Ready to speak with your local Ulster County REALTOR®? Visit the Ulster County Board of REALTORS® to find out more.