Are you wondering what a Massachusetts Realtor is and what they do for their clients? A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). There are over 1.5 million Realtors across the United States. They adhere to a strict code of ethics and standards that set them apart from other real estate agents. The organization advocates for upholding the rights of buyers and sellers worldwide.

Realtors provide comprehensive services to buyers and sellers, ensuring smooth and ethical transactions. I have been a Realtor in Massachusetts for nearly thirty-eight years. I became a Realtor because I love the fact that there is an obligation to do what is best for the client.

The best Realtors prioritize their clients’ interests over their own. Getting a commission check is the result, not the goal.

For example, when someone asks the best time to sell a house, the answer shouldn’t always be “now.” It should be the truth. Agents who tell you now are looking out for their wallet or purse. They are thinking about how to get their next commission as fast as possible, not what’s best for the person asking the question.

They go to great lengths to explain terrible concepts like single agent dual agency and its downsides for buyers and sellers. In a nutshell, they take the word fiduciary seriously.

Crucial Takeaways on Realtors

I will provide you with the following information so you can make better decisions when buying or selling real estate:

• The definition of a Realtor
• How is a Realtor different from a real estate agent
• Tasks and responsibilities Realtors have in a real estate transaction

Let’s examine everything you should know.

The Definition of a Realtor Explained.

Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents and Realtors hold licenses to assist in buying or selling properties. However, not all real estate agents are Realtors. Realtors belong to the NAR and commit to its code of ethics. This membership means they must uphold higher standards of professionalism and ethics than non-member agents.

When you need real estate services, I highly recommend working with a Massachusetts Realtor rather than someone without these credentials. Finding a skilled local Realtor nearby is paramount to achieving the best results.

Services Provided by Massachusetts Realtors

Here is a list of a Realtor’s tasks and responsibilities for potential home buyers in Massachusetts. Below is a summary, but my resource provides a more exhaustive list of everything a Realtor does for you.

For Buyers

A realtor’s least essential task as a buyer’s agent is showing people houses, which requires little skill.

1. Market Analysis

Realtors conduct detailed market analyses to help buyers understand current market conditions. They examine recent sales data, neighborhood trends, and property values to help buyers decide what and where to buy.

They take the time to explain what the client will face, whether it is a seller’s or buyer’s market.

2. Property Search

Realtors can access multiple listing services (MLS), which provide comprehensive listings of available properties. They can identify homes meeting a buyer’s criteria, including those not listed publicly or pocket listings. This gives buyers a more extensive selection and a better chance of finding their ideal property.

3. Research and Due Diligence

An outstanding buyer’s agent will take the time to do proper due diligence on a property you would like to purchase. They will seek out any negatives that could influence your purchase decision. For example, if the seller has renovated the house extensively, you’ll want to know if proper building permits were pulled.

A Realtor does this for you.

4. Negotiation

Realtors are skilled negotiators. They understand market values and can advise buyers on making competitive offers. They negotiate with sellers and agents to get their clients the best terms and prices. This includes handling counteroffers and ensuring the buyer’s interests are protected.

Making suggestions on how to meet these goals is routine. For example, they may suggest you add an escalation clause to an offer if there is a strong likelihood of a bidding war.

5. Paperwork Management

The home-buying process involves a significant amount of paperwork. Realtors manage this paperwork, ensuring all documents are completed accurately and submitted on time. They understand legal requirements and ensure compliance, reducing the risk of errors and delays.

6. Guidance and Support

Buying a home can be a complex and emotional process. Realtors provide ongoing support and guidance from the initial property search to closing. They answer questions, address concerns, and help buyers navigate each step of the process. This support ensures a smoother, less stressful experience for buyers.

For Sellers

A top Realtor will provide the best advice on how to sell a house quickly and profitably. Much of their tips should center around this goal.

1. Market Analysis and Pricing

Realtors conduct market analyses to determine the optimal listing price for a property. They examine comparable properties (comps) recently sold in the area. This analysis helps set a competitive price that attracts buyers while ensuring sellers get the best possible return on their investment.

The best Massachusetts Realtors take this task very seriously, as getting the price wrong can cause poor results. Understanding accurate pricing is vital for first-time sellers.

2. Advice on Staging and Preparation

Another essential task is to provide sound advice on how to stage a home. Preparation for the market is crucial to have the best success. You want to make it easy for potential buyers to picture themselves living in your home.

Outstanding Realtors know how to put you in the best position by offering guidance on what to fix, removing furniture, popular paint colors, and much more.

3. Marketing

Effective marketing is crucial for selling a property. Realtors create comprehensive marketing plans that may include professional photography, virtual tours, and detailed property descriptions. They list the property on the MLS and other real estate websites and may also use social media and email marketing to reach potential buyers.

Marketing is one of the most crucial tasks of a Realtor representing a seller.

4. Open Houses and Showings

Realtors organize and conduct open houses and property showings. They schedule showings at convenient times for potential buyers and ensure the property is presented in the best possible light. However, top-producing Realtors rarely focus on open houses. They will explain the downsides to potential sellers when deciding whether to hold one.

There is no hiding that open houses attract the wrong people walking through the home and have the potential for theft.

5. Negotiation

When offers are received, Realtors negotiate on behalf of the seller. They evaluate each offer, considering price, terms, and contingencies. Realtors aim to secure the best possible deal for the seller, whether it’s the highest price, quickest closing, or other favorable terms.

6. Paperwork and Closing

The selling process involves extensive paperwork, including contracts, disclosures, and closing documents. Realtors manage all necessary paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. They coordinate with buyers, other agents, and real estate attorneys to ensure a smooth closing process.

Professional Standards of Realtors in Massachusetts

Realtors Follow a Code of Ethics.

Realtors adhere to a strict code of ethics established by the NAR. This code includes obligations to clients, the public, and other Realtors. It ensures that Realtors operate with integrity, honesty, and transparency. Their commitment to these standards builds trust and credibility with clients and other professionals.

1. Obligations to Clients

Realtors must always act in their client’s best interests. This includes maintaining confidentiality, providing honest advice, and avoiding conflicts of interest. They must disclose any personal interest in a transaction and always put their client’s needs first.

2. Obligations to the Public

Realtors must treat all parties fairly and honestly. This includes accurate representation of properties, truthful advertising, and adherence to fair housing laws. They must not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

They take federal fair housing laws very seriously.

3. Obligations to Other Realtors

Realtors must work cooperatively with other Realtors to advance their clients’ interests. This includes sharing information, respecting exclusive agreements, and resolving disputes through arbitration rather than litigation. Professionalism and respect for colleagues are paramount.

Advantages of Working with a Realtor

1. Expert Knowledge

Realtors possess deep knowledge of the real estate market and local area. They understand market trends, property values, and neighborhood characteristics, which helps clients make informed decisions about buying or selling a property.

2. Access to Resources

Realtors have access to extensive resources, including MLS listings and industry contacts. This access allows them to find properties that meet a buyer’s criteria and market properties effectively for sellers. They can also recommend reliable service providers, such as inspectors and contractors.

3. Negotiation Skills

Realtors have strong negotiation skills, ensuring clients get the best deals. They understand how to craft competitive offers and counteroffers. Their experience in negotiation helps protect their client’s interests and achieve favorable terms.

4. Ethical Standards

Their adherence to the NAR’s code of ethics guarantees professional and ethical service. Clients can trust that Realtors will act with integrity, honesty, and transparency. This commitment to ethics builds trust and ensures a high standard of service.

5. Support and Guidance

Realtors provide continuous support and guidance throughout the transaction process. They help clients navigate each step, from initial search to closing. This support reduces stress and ensures a smoother, more efficient process for buyers and sellers.

Conclusion

Realtors stand out for their commitment to professionalism, ethical standards, and comprehensive services. They assist buyers and sellers with market analysis, negotiations, and legal paperwork. Working with a Realtor ensures a smooth and ethical real estate transaction.

If you are in the Metrowest, Massachusetts, area and need a reliable Realtor to help sell your home, please get in touch with me. I would welcome the opportunity to interview.