Recently MAC Marketing Solutions held a contest on our social media sites, asking our followers, “What’s on your mind?” We wanted to know if the readers of this blog had any burning questions that they’d like me to answer. One of our loyal Twitter followers asked us: Do you need a Realtor when buying presale real estate? The answer is both yes or no.

Firstly, the word ‘presale’, sometimes called ‘pre-construction’ refers to a home or condo that is not yet built. When buying presale real estate, some buyers wish to use a Realtor to represent them. MAC 100% supports buyers’ Realtor relationships, and any developer or other real estate marketing and sales firm should too! Whether you have a Realtor or not, the price of your new home should not vary. Realtor commissions are budgeted for which means we work with our buyers in the same way whether with or without a Realtor.

Good Realtors can be invaluable as they will hold your hand through the process, answer all of your questions, walk you through the legalities and do the legwork. This is an important role so as I’ve mentioned before, this is not your sister’s, ex-boyfriend’s mom! If you decide you would prefer working with a Realtor, make sure you interview a few Realtors who specialize in the area and the product you are looking for. Take the time to ask them the tough questions like asking for references, what’s included in their services and also their general working style. Ensure you are working with someone you trust and is looking out for your best interest. Once you’ve selected a Realtor, be sure to be as specific about your desires and try to differentiate what you absolutely need and what you would like to have to help narrow down your search. Having great communication and trust in your Realtor will likely improve your chances of getting exactly what you are looking for.

For those buyers who don’t have a Realtor, that’s ok too. Particularly in presale, buyers have more access to information via web sites and Presentation Centres than ever before. All of our sales team members at MAC Marketing Solutions are fully licensed and are trained to walk you step-by-step through the sales process, ensuring you are clear on every aspect of the community and the paperwork.

Cameron McNeill