Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will make in their lifetime. It involves navigating a complex process that requires expertise, careful planning, and attention to detail. To empower consumers in making informed decisions, the National Association of REALTORS® has developed a series of comprehensive guides addressing key aspects of real estate transactions. These guides provide essential knowledge for buyers and sellers, covering topics from selecting an agent to understanding the finer points of financing, appraisals, inspections, and closing.
For homebuyers, working with a knowledgeable and ethical agent can make all the difference. The guides outline the critical questions to ask when choosing a buyer’s agent, emphasizing the importance of market knowledge, specialized experience, and written agreements that clarify expectations. From understanding mortgages and financing options to preparing for appraisals and inspections, the guides equip buyers with the tools to navigate the journey from searching for a home to closing the deal with confidence.
Sellers are also provided with valuable resources to help them maximize the value of their property and attract the right buyers. Topics include selecting a seller’s agent, crafting listing agreements, and leveraging marketing strategies to appeal to potential buyers. Additionally, the guides explore offers of compensation and seller concessions—two powerful tools for facilitating successful transactions. Sellers can better understand how to price their property competitively, prepare for showings, and manage the negotiation process with clarity and assurance.
Other essential topics covered include fair housing rights, which ensure a discrimination-free process for all parties, and flood insurance, which protects homeowners from one of the most common and costly natural disasters. The guides also delve into the critical steps between signing a purchase agreement and closing on a home, providing a roadmap to navigate this often-overlooked phase of the transaction.
These resources are designed to demystify real estate processes, enabling buyers and sellers to make informed decisions while safeguarding their financial and personal interests. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned homeowner, or someone preparing to sell your property, these guides offer valuable insights that can make your real estate experience seamless and successful.
All of the guides are included in the PDF below.
Ten Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent
Key questions to evaluate and select a buyer’s agent, focusing on services, expertise, and contractual agreements.
Ten Questions to Ask a Seller’s Agent
Guidance on choosing a seller’s agent, including marketing strategies, pricing, and contractual specifics.
The Appraisal Process
Explains appraisals, their necessity, what to expect, and steps to take if appraisal value differs from purchase price.
Fair Housing
Details rights and responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act, emphasizing anti-discrimination in housing transactions.
Flood Insurance
Insights on obtaining flood insurance, coverage options, and evaluating property risks related to flooding.
Home Inspections
Overview of the home inspection process, its benefits, typical findings, and how it influences purchase decisions.
Listing Agreements
Information on the types of listing agreements, agent services, and negotiation options for seller representation.
Mortgages and Financing
Explores mortgage types, financing options, down payments, and strategies to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Offers of Compensation
Outlines when and why sellers might offer compensation to buyer agents and how it influences buyer attraction.
Seller Concessions
Discusses concessions sellers can offer, their benefits, and how they impact home affordability for buyers.
Steps Between Signing and Closing
Details the escrow process, required inspections, appraisals, and actions leading to successful transaction closure.
Written Buyer Agreements
Clarifies the purpose and negotiable aspects of written agreements between buyers and real estate professionals.