Most are familiar with using a REALTOR® as a buying agent to assist in finding a home and as a listing agent to assist in selling a home. But, have you ever considered working with a REALTOR in other ways? Characteristically real estate agents are known for their creativity, problem-solving and skills in knowing people throughout the area. These sought-after skills come in handy in numerous ways.

1. Helping you to find comparable home sales to protest assessed values at tax time.

One way to lower your property tax bill is to demonstrate the home is worth less than the assessed value. A call to your real estate agent to pull together market data can save you money at tax time.

2. Become your trusted go-to for vendor contacts for repair people.

Should you need a home repair, a renovation, or a referral to home service provider to take care of an issue at your home you can to choose the right provider. Here’s where reaching out to your real estate professional can save you headaches later on. Because the agents work with these professionals so often, we have a list of who are the best at delivering what they say they can do, in a timely manner.

3. Be your home staging expert with an objective eye on your home furnishings.

When it’s time to sell your home and show off it’s best space features you need to have someone with objective perspective who can see your home with fresh eyes. You may have always positioned the sofa along the far wall but repositioning to the opposite side of the room creates better flow. Even redistributing furnishings from other rooms can be pleasing and elevate aesthetic appeal.

4. Help you sift through the home choices to stay focused on your list of wants and needs.

After visiting a few homes it’s natural to get distracted and lose focus on what you’ve deemed your priorities for what you need and want in a future home. This is the time to use your REALTOR® as your sounding board. Sit down and review each property with your key focus points in mind.

5. Be your property investment adviser.

If you find yourself with funds ready to invest in property the first thing to do is plan a consultation with a REALTOR® to determine which types of properties are best fit for your return on investment goals. You may have been leaning towards residential properties but your agent knows there is a reason demand for commercial properties with high yields. Tap into the resources your REALTOR® can provide so you can maximum the returns of your investments.

6. Aid you in documenting your property assets.

There are times in life when it’s necessary to know the current value of your property such as applying for a loan or evaluating insurance coverage. Ask a REALTOR® to assist with compiling the market value of your home.

7. Be a resource to aid in stopping a foreclosure.

A REALTOR® has an array of resources available and can be source of information for someone facing foreclosure or how to prevent foreclosure. If scheduling a time to speak with a real estate professional can help someone avoid going through this devastating experience it’s worth scheduling an appointment.

Your real estate agent is a valuable source of information just waiting to assist you. Most REALTORS® enter this career choice because they are driven to help people. Let your agent work for you when it comes to the many things involved with your home. Have a question? Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers every year. Sara is an American Dream TV Power Player who shares Houston real estate news with television viewers. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region. Start the conversation by scheduling an appointment with Sara.