Why Use a Realtor

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will make. While it’s possible to navigate the process on your own, working with a Realtor® provides guidance, structure, and insight that can make a meaningful difference — especially in a competitive and fast-moving market.

From your first showing to closing day, a Realtor® helps you understand the process, evaluate your options, and make informed decisions along the way.

NOT ALL REAL ESTATE AGENTS ARE THE SAME

In Vermont, anyone selling real estate must be licensed — but not every licensee is a Realtor®.

Realtors® are members of the National Association of Realtors® and are held to a strict code of ethics that emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and client advocacy. This distinction reflects a higher standard of service and a commitment to ongoing education and market knowledge.

At Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman, our Realtors® combine that professional standard with deep local experience across Northwest and Central Vermont.

Benefits of Using a REALTOR®

Access to Opportunities

Realtors® provide access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), along with insight into properties that may not yet be publicly available. More importantly, they help you interpret what you’re seeing — identifying value, potential concerns, and opportunities you might otherwise miss.

Market Insight That Guides Decisions

Understanding pricing, demand, and local trends is critical when buying a home. A Realtor® helps you evaluate how a property fits within the current market — so you can make decisions based on real data, not guesswork.

Stronger, More Competitive Offers

In many situations, success is not just about offering the highest price. Terms, timing, contingencies, and flexibility all play a role. A Realtor® helps you structure an offer that aligns with your goals while remaining competitive in the market.

Skilled Negotiation

Negotiation doesn’t end once an offer is accepted. From inspections to repairs and closing terms, a Realtor® helps guide conversations and advocate for your interests throughout the process.

Guidance Through Inspections and Due Diligence

Once you are under contract, there are multiple steps that must be completed — inspections, financing, and timelines. Your Realtor® helps coordinate these steps and connects you with trusted professionals when needed.

Keeping the Process on Track

Real estate transactions involve deadlines and moving parts. Your Realtor® helps ensure nothing is missed — from contract timelines to final walkthrough — so your purchase stays on track.

Support Through Closing

Before closing, your Realtor® will walk through the property with you to confirm its condition and that any agreed-upon work has been completed. They remain involved through the final steps to help ensure a smooth closing.

WHY IT MATTERS

Buying a home is an exciting time, but it also involves complex decisions and important details. Having experienced guidance helps reduce uncertainty and ensures you’re supported at every stage.

A Realtor® doesn’t just help you find a home — they help you navigate the process, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence.