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Yes, technology is getting smarter, but a Realtor's expertise in the buying and selling of homes cannot be replaced. It's undeniable that the volumes of information made available by the internet have changed the home buying and home selling process. However, just because you have a wealth of medical knowledge at your fingertips doesn't mean that you can diagnose and treat your medical condition. Just because you can buy and sell stocks commission-free on Robinhood doesn't mean it's a good idea to lay down your retirement fund without any expert advice. The same holds true in the purchase or sale of real estate. Anyone can stake a "for sale by owner" sign in their yard, but it takes more than a quick online search to determine a competitive asking price for your home. Alternatively, as a buyer in today's hot market with houses selling in a matter of days, do you really expect your offer to stand out compared with those prepared by professionals with local market knowledge? Realtors spend months studying to become a real estate agent. They are able to apply their knowledge and extensive real-life experience gained along the way to help people navigate a significant variety of complex and technical aspects associated with selling or buying a home. Research shows that 88 percent of those who start their homebuying or homeselling search online ultimately use a real estate agent as the process moves forward. Most likely, they had a Realtor – a member of the National Association of Realtors - guiding them through everything, from price negotiation and lender applications, to open houses and final inspection walkthroughs. By buying a home, you are entering a contract on one of the largest and complicated purchases you'll ever make. Compare that with what is likely your second most expensive purchase, a car, and you'll recognize that there's a lot more to it than kicking the tires, a bit of haggling, and a simple loan application. Along with being licensed to do their job, Realtors are guided by a professional code of ethics. They don't acquire their skills from watching HGTV. They learn their knowledge by helping their friends, family, neighbors and community members buy and sell their homes. They are experts, just as a teacher is to his/her students or a doctor to his/her patients. We highly recommend that you hire an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor who is familiar with the community within which you wish to purchase or sell your home. Source: Realtor Magazine, Winter 2022 The Advantage of Using a Realtor By Glenn and Nona Bradd, Realtors and Residents | LIFE IN SOLERA | APRIL 2022 | 15