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) and 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, an acceptable offer 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® with strong negotiation skills guides conversations and advocates for your interests throughout the process.
Guidance Through Inspections and Due Diligence
Once you are under contract, multiple steps must be completed within specific timelines outlined in the Purchase and Sale Agreement, such as inspections, financing, and other conditions. 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, significant financial investments, and time-sensitive details throughout the process. Having experienced guidance helps reduce uncertainty and ensures you’re supported at every stage.
At Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman, we believe a Realtor® doesn’t just help you find a home — they help you navigate the process, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence.
