Real Estate Tips by Andrew Cochrane

What is the difference between a Realtor® and a Real Estate Agent?

Often many people use the term Realtor® and Real Estate Agent as if they are one in the same, but that is far from correct. Do they both sell real estate? Yes, but the basic difference between the two is that the Realtor® is a member of the National Association of Realtors®and is held to a code of ethics. Why is this important to you as a consumer? The Code of Ethics is strictly enforced. It contains 17 Articles and various underlying Standards of Practice. It’s not just a bunch of rules that agents swear to uphold and adhere to. The Standards are much more restrictive and confining as to conduct than those governing agents who simply hold a real estate license. While there is neither evidence nor guarantee that all Realtors® are morally and ethically better than unaffiliated real estate agents, it is an attempt by the industry to regulate such activity.

Why should I use a Realtor®?
A Real Estate transaction in most cases involves one of the biggest financial investments people will experience in their life. On Fort Myers Beach the average price is considerably more than in most areas of Lee County and is a transaction that a professional should assist you with. If you had a $300,000 pending litigation against you for one reason or another would you not contact an attorney or would you go into court without proper representation?
*A Realtor® can help you understand different financing options and help you identify a qualified lender.
*A Realtor® can determine your buying power by gathering basic information about your financial reserves plus your borrowing capacity.
*A Realtor® will give you up-to-date information on what is happening in the market place and the price, financing, terms and conditions of competing properties when selling your house.
*A Realtor® will help you objectively evaluate every buyer’s proposal without compromising your marketing position.
*A Realtor® will help you negotiate as there are many negotiating factors such as price, terms, repairs, financing, possession and deadline dates are a few examples.
*A Realtor® will know when, where and how to advertise your property to get the biggest exposure for your property.

When considering the small upside down cost and the large upside down risk, it would be foolish to consider a deal by either selling or purchasing a home without the professional assistance of a Realtor®.

Andrew Cochrane, P.A.

ABR, GRI, e-PRO, Notary Public
Realtor~ Residential and Commercial Specialist

Lahaina Realty

6035 Estero Blvd.
Fort Myers Beach, FL. 33931
239-297-3500 ~Cell
239-463-0000 X148 ~Office
239-463-5617 ~ Fax
Andrew.Cochrane@YourFMBrealtor.com
www.YourFMBrealtor.com