1. Education and Experience Let's face it. Many people think they know what they're doing when they're buying or selling a home because they've read some articles on the Internet about it. The reality is that most people eventually realize there is so much involved in the process they didn't know about and end up paying the price. Most real estate agents are familiar with market conditions. Information such as the average cost per square foot of similar homes, average sales prices, and average days on the market can have an impact on your selling or buying decisions. Agents can guide clients to make the best pricing decision for themselves because of their knowledge and experience. 2. Marketing The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is an essential tool that real estate agents have ready access to. They also have experience with newspaper and magazine ads, Internet listings, and a network of other agents. You may have access to many of these tools, but a real estate agent has expertise utilizing them. These marketing tools will get you more exposure and likely help sell your home faster if you're a seller and assist you in finding the best deal on a home if you're a buyer. 3. Negotiation Skills Agents aren't emotionally involved in the process as much as the buyer or seller, and good agents are skilled in the art of negotiating. They can also act as a buffer between you and the buyer or seller. 4. Paperwork Purchase agreements consist of many pages of paperwork. Even the smallest mistake in paperwork can cost you thousands or even land you in court. A good real estate agent knows that scaling the mountain of paperwork to ensure there are no mistakes and nothing is missed is his job. 5. Questions After Closing Many questions can arise after closing on a home, and a good real estate agent won't leave you searching for the answers yourself.