The Value of Using a REALTOR in the Central Iowa Real Estate Market

Central Iowa Real Estate Podcast with Misty Soldwisch

The Central Iowa real estate market is diverse with both buyers and sellers alike seeking a variety of different properties. As a prospective seller, you can find out the market value of your property with a free home value report right here, or if you're looking to purchase in the Central Iowa click here for full MLS access. Always feel free to reach out to us for any questions regarding the current market conditions, or the value of your property at 515-229-9764.

In this age of so much information being available online, buyers and sellers have the mistaken impression that they don’t need a professional to assist them. I’m here to tell you that there is true value in enlisting a REALTOR to assist you in the real estate process.

A REALTOR is not the same thing as a real estate agent. Anyone who is licensed in the state of Iowa can be called a real estate agent, but only real estate agents who are a member of the National Association of REALTORS can be called a REALTOR. The difference is that REALTORS adhere to a national code of ethics designed to protect the consumer and to ensure that your needs are being met in the process of buying or selling a home.

"A REALTOR blends a strict adherence to a code of ethics with a unique expertise."

What are some of the things we offer?

1. We’re experts on the process. Most people only go through the process of buying or selling a home once every few years. We’re going through it every day, meaning we’re aware of the regulatory changes, lending changes, and different rules that you need to adhere to. We also know the best lenders, home inspectors, and contractors you may need to assist you.
2. We’re also valuation experts. Anyone can put their address into a valuation website and get a general idea of what homes have recently sold for in the neighborhood. It’s usually a very large ballpark figure, though, because those websites haven’t been inside of the home. What we bring to the table is that we look at the home that you’re wanting to buy or sell and look at the specific features (square footage, baths, types of finishes, ect.), and we compare it to other homes we have more specific information on that have recently sold in the area. This way you’re able to make a more knowledgeable decision on both where to buy a home at, or where to sell a home at for value.
3. Negotiation strategy. Because we go through this all the time, we have knowledge on different ways you can approach a situation as a buyer or seller in order to meet your goals. We look at if a home has been on the market for quite some time versus if it’s new on the market, in a multiple offer situation. We’re going to look at all the facts and figures and give you different options in order for you to negotiate the best situation possible for your needs and meet your goal.

These three skills add thousands of dollars in value, so be sure that the next time you’re wanting to buy or sell, enlist the help of a REALTOR. Here at the Misty Soldswich Team, we would love to help. If you have any more questions, just reach out to us by phone or email. We’re here to help.