Tips from Realtors

Whether you're buying or selling a home – or just window shopping – there is much to know. It can be overwhelming to deal with research, paperwork, mortgage rates, etc. We asked local realtors for their best tips to help...

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Whether you're buying or selling a home – or just window shopping – there is much to know. It can be overwhelming to deal with research, paperwork, mortgage rates, etc. We asked local realtors for their best tips to help you navigate the process: They agree that buyers and sellers should work with a real estate professional.

"As a result of misinformation about the NAR lawsuit, many buyers and sellers are seriously considering hiring a cheap agent or going it alone," said Mark Mitchell, Realtor, Dunes Properties of Charleston "Buying or selling a home without a professional agent is a good idea, until it's not." Real estate experts also know the local players. "A good agent's network is their secret weapon, and their connection with lenders, inspectors, and other professionals streamline the process for their buying clients," said Leslie Turner, Broker In Charge and Founder of Maison Real Estate.



"An experienced agent will protect you and your money and help you find a terrific home." That agent should be knowledgeable about the area where you want to purchase your home. "For example, if you're looking for a home in Summerville, don't hire an agent from Mount Pleasant," said Ladd D Shuford, Realtor/Owner, The Flowertown Group at Keller Williams Parkway.

As the seller, Turner said to find an agent who has sold homes in your neighborhood, particularly at the price point you think your home is worth. "The listing agent should evaluate your property, assess its condition, and recommend improvements to help your house sell faster and at a higher price," she said. Finally, if you're interested in new construction, Shuford suggests finding a Realtor who specializes in that niche.

"It's much different from buying a resale home," he said. Today's Top Headlines Story continues below How did 14 of the world’s deadliest snakes end up in a South Carolina neighborhood? North Myrtle Beach's Alligator Adventure offers $6.25M to settle lawsuit over tourist's death South Carolina's Freddie Owens killed by lethal injection, first execution in 13 years Freddie Eugene Owens executed by lethal injection in South Carolina Adrift in the ocean for 7 hours, man's rescue leads to search for stranded wife Invasive animals plague South Carolina.

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