Fayette County Realtors to join in national open house
Fayette County Realtors will join in a national open house this weekend sponsored by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
The idea behind the event is to bring buyers and sellers together in a coast-to-coast program.
“Realtor Nationwide Open House aims to engage consumers regarding the benefits of homeownership to families, communities and the economy.
It is also an opportunity for Realtors to connect with consumers in their communities and the local economy,” according to Cynthia Robinson, a member of the professional standards committee of the Fayette Board of Realtors.
Realtors, she added, will be present at the open houses to offer expert insight into the local housing market and answer questions consumers have regarding the home buying process.
“Realtor Nationwide Open House Weekend not only brings buyers and sellers together, it is also an opportunity for Realtors to connect with consumers in their communities about the housing issues that matter most to them,” Robinson said.
Owning a home has long-standing government support in this country because homeownership benefits individuals and families, strengthens our communities, and is integral to our nationĢƵ economy, she added.
According to the NAR, home sales in this country generate more than 2.5 million private-sector jobs in an average year. For every two homes sold, a job is created.
“Home ownership also is an investment in your future.
“The home is where we make memories, build our futures, and feel comfortable and secure. Owning a home offers immediate shelter benefits and long-term value,” Robinson said.
“The decision to own a home is a very personal one, but we believe that anyone who is able and willing to assume the responsibilities of owning a home should have the opportunity to pursue that dream.
“We need to make sure that any changes to current programs or incentives don’t jeopardize a housing and economic recovery. We need to ensure public policies that promote responsible, sustainable homeownership.
“We hope that our countryĢƵ leaders, now and into the future, understand the vital role that real estate plays in both the long- and short-term health of this nation,” she added.
The NAR also recommends using Realtors as a source of real estate information and adds they can help buyers navigate the increasingly complex home buying process.
“Buyers should carefully evaluate their finances before beginning the search process. They should look at their income, savings and credit report, and collect documentation of income and cash available to prepare for the mortgage application process.
“Realtors can help buyers through this process,” according to the NAR.
Buyers should look for a Realtor who is familiar with the areas and neighborhoods they are considering.
“A Realtor is a buyerĢƵ partner in the real estate transaction. Realtors provide buyers with counsel, market data, strategies, negotiating skills and more,” according to the NAR.
But Realtors are also helpful to home sellers.
“Selling a home can be a complex process. Realtors bring value to sellers by helping them effectively prepare, position, price and sell their home. Realtors have invaluable insights into what sells a home. They have a unique understanding of local markets, home features and buyer preferences,” according to the NAR.
Sellers should prepare their home for sale with an eye toward what appeals to todayĢƵ buyers, the NAR recommends.
“Enhancing curb appeal, showcasing areas like kitchens and bathrooms, and making sure the home is well-maintained and free of clutter will attract more buyers and can improve value.”
To receive more information on the Nationwide Open House or buying or selling a home, call the Fayette Board of Realtors at 92 E. Main St., Suite 23, Uniontown, Pa., 724-437-1740; fax: 724-437-6065; email: fayboard@verizon.net; or go online to www.ourhomesite.com/fayette or ww.facebook.com/FayetteBoard.
For more information on buying or selling a home, go online to HouseLogic.com/buyandsell.
Jim Pletcher writes a weekly real-estate story for the ĢƵ from a variety of angles. If you have an interesting story about buying or selling a home in Fayette County and would like a story written about it, please contact ĢƵ Executive Editor Mark O’Keefe at 724-439-7569.