To buy or sell a home is a huge decision, both emotionally and financially.  Most people when it comes to do either work with a real Estate agent to help them through the process.  Real estate agents are trained in all aspects of real estate transactions so they can help with things like negotiations, evaluations and walking in your through the sale process.  However not all real estate agents are created equal, some are fantastic and others not so forthcoming.

Here are some things that your real estate agent will never tell you. 

1. If you live in a highly desirable area or it’s a seller’s market you don’t really need an agent to sell your home. Some markets move so quickly that you can sell your home within day.  This is rarely the case however.
2. Commissions are always negotiable. They may tell you that it is fixed at a certain percentage but there is always room for negotiations. You can also completely avoid commission if you sell the house yourself.
3. You don’t have to move out of your home in order to sell it. Most home sell quicker when they are properly staged, giving a buyer the feeling of what it is like to live there.
4. Kitchens don’t really sell houses. Yes all buyers will look at your kitchen but there are dozens of other factors involved in the buying decisions.
5. Small boutique real estate firms can sell your house just as well as a large firm.
6. Always hire a home inspector before you buy a home, no matter what the realtor says. Keep in mind that even a home inspector won’t tell you everything about your house.
7. Many realtors, although not all, want the deal done quickly rather than holding out for a better offer. Yes, they do get a smaller commission but they don’t have to spend any more time or money on marketing and can move on to the next house.
8. Yes, there might be a better deal in the future but nothing is guaranteed.
9. Agents can be paid from the buyer and the seller on the same house so be careful of a conflict of interest.
10. Unless you are buying a house to flip your house should be in move-in condition when you take possession.

Selling or buying your home is far easier when you work with a reputable realtor, but you should still keep your eyes wide open and be a part of the transaction.