
Few things are as important as purchasing a home. For most, it will be the largest investment of their life. Therefore, it is important to work with the best when you are ready to buy your home. Be sure to choose a REALTOR® and not just a sales agent.
A sales agent may sell you a house but a REALTOR® subscribes to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and adheres to continuous education and a strict code of ethics. Real Estate is a very competitive industry, please choose carefully.
Why Choose a REALTOR "®" ?
- A REALTOR® is a trained professional and knowledgeable consultant, who consistently completes continuous education classes to keep abreast of real estate law, ethics, contracting, fair housing and all matters pertaining to real estate.
- A REALTOR® will minimize the inconvenience a buyer will experience in the search and purchase of a home by saving the buyer time, money and frustration.
- A REALTOR® may assist, advise and represent the buyer (client) in negotiating, writing a contract, presenting an offer and/or counteroffer(s) financing, inspections and closing. Note: Georgia state law requires a Buyer's Agency Agreement in order for a REALTOR® to advise and negotiate on a buyer's (client) behalf. Contact or visit Donna , see the "buying" page for more information about buyer's agency or ask a REALTOR® for details.
- A REALTOR® is THE local market expert and may provide the buyer with actual market data.
- A REALTOR® is committed to promoting the client's best interest above anyone else including his/her own interest within the law.
- A REALTOR® owes the buyer (client) specific duties such as, loyalty, confidentiality, and lawful handling of monies.

This was written with the buyer in mind but applies to sellers too.
Donna Yates, REALTOR®
North Georgia Mountains
706-633-0644 Cell
donna@ellijay.com
www.move2northgeorgia.net


Donna, This is aways a good reminder and a good way for us to present ourselves to prospects and clients.
Have a good weekend, Charles
I think that for the most part, people understand that it isn't as easy as walking up to a FSBO, knocking on the door and agreeing on a price. It's what takes place from that moment forward that can be devastating for an unrepresented consumer. In Vancouver I have actually met people at open house that were going to try it on their own only to contact me a month or so later stating that they had discovered that the process wasn't as easy as they thought. Protect yourself people!
Derrick: I specifically posted to localism. It seems like I have to explain this daily to people I come in contact with. I guess it can't be stressed enough. It's amazing how many people think we are all rich and do virtually nothing in the process. I wont' even get started on being self-employed and all the expense with that plus commission that has to be paid to the brokerage firm.
Carole: I like those people who try to sell on their own. That way they learn first hand without a Realtor having to preach it. It's hard way to learn for those folk but it's something they will remember and appreciate.
Charles: I know it's been said before and it will probably have to be said again but I felt that I had to write this blog primarily to post to localism. It seems like I encounter someone daily who has absolutely no idea just how much a motivated and hard working Realtor really does. Unless we go around shouting it from the rooftops, which we don't, most buyers and sellers will never know so we must educate as best we can. I am disappointed that the NAR does not do a better job when it comes to this topic.
Terry: It's a hard way for FSBOs to learn but it's always nice to know that they do eventually realize that a Realtor is a very needed and valuable asset in helping them achieve their goals.
We assure that our customers see all the properties in the area that meet their criteria. Guide them through the entire home buying process, from finding homes to look at, to getting the best financing.
We make sure they don't pay too much for their new home and help them to avoid costly mistakes. Answer all questions about the local market area, including schools, neighborhoods, the local economy, and more.
In addition, today I previewed 15 homes for a customer that is flying in to town to buy a home! I work hard for my money!!!
Michael: I look forward to the blog. After I finsih here, I'm going to see if you've written it. Thank you for your comment.
Margaret: Looks like it's really up to the Realtors to get the word out. Can't figure out why NAR doesn't do more. Thank you for your comment.
Stephen: I agree. Let's keep telling the public because I do hate to see the average consumer learn the hard way. They need to know that good Realtors really are worth every dime! Thank you for your comment.
I wrote a post for sellers to help them in choosing a Realtor, you can read it here http://activerain.com/blogsview/595272/how-to-choose-the-best-realtor .
Christina: Thank you for your comment and I will go check out your blog now. Just a friendly tip though, many members do not like references to other members blogs in comments. I don't mind but some really will and I just thought I would let you know.