When most people think of hiring a real estate agent, they imagine buying a home. What they don’t realize is that real estate agents can be a valuable addition to your home buying search, even if you’re “just” renting.
 
At Network Real Estate, we believe a roof over your head is important and that a home is what you make of it. People rent for many reasons, whether it’s because they’re still saving up for their first home, they’re students at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, or they haven’t yet settled into a career. Renting can offer flexibility and freedom, and for many people it’s the smartest decision they can make. Just because they aren’t buying, however, doesn’t mean they have to go through the process of finding a home by themselves. Renters can hire real estate agents to make the process easier, smoother and more successful than it might be otherwise. If you’re renting, there are at least five ways a real estate agent can save you time, money and stress.

1. Real estate agents have access to the MLS list of rentals.  No more trolling Craigslist or driving in circles, looking for “For Rent” signs. If you do happen to find something you love on a website or during your morning commute, send us the listing and we’ll do the research for you. 
    
2. Real estate agents can save you time by narrowing the field and setting up showings. Once we put together a list of possible properties, your real estate agent will coordinate with the landlord, apartment manager, or rental company to set up a showing. This can be a tedious process that eats up your time and takes away from your other responsibilities – unless you’re a real estate agent and this process is your full-time job. 
    
3. Real estate agents aren’t expensive – typically, we’re paid by the property owner. Depending on the situation, some real estate agents may charge a nominal fee to ensure that you’re a serious client and are as invested in the search as the real estate agent you hired. Generally, however, the property owner or landlord will pay the bulk of the associated fees. After all, your real estate agent isn’t just finding you a home. He or she is also helping property owners find responsible renters.
    
4. Real estate agents can protect you from signing a bad lease. Real estate agents spend all day looking at contracts and leases, and we can spot a bad one from a mile away. A real estate agent will steer you away from leases that are open ended, vague or contain unfair fees or expectations. A good lease and clear expectations between you and your landlord will go a long way toward making your living situation stable and enjoyable. 
    
5. Real estate agents have experience negotiating. An experienced real estate agent knows the value of the home you’re viewing, as well as the value of neighboring homes. We know how to talk to property owners, negotiate contracts and get the best deal every time. By working with a real estate agent, you give yourself an advantage, one that could have a positive, lasting effect on your life for as long as you rent your home.