Less than 5% of the homes currently for sale are advertised (because advertising is expensive). However, Realtors share access to all homes listed through their multi-listing system. So while other sources exist (newspaper, internet, monthly real estate magazines), a Buyer can gain access to 20 times more homes through a Realtor. Also, a Realtor can provide first hand knowledge of the available homes, important information concerning mortgage sources, home inspection companies, real estate lawyers, local schools, shopping, builders etc. This and the convenience of someone who knows the market doing the leg work and providing expert negotiation skills while the seller pays the cost is quite a bargain.

Most Buyers (96% of those in the marketplace) work with Realtors. The key to selling a home for the most money is to get the greatest exposure to the maximum number of buyers. Selling through a Realtor, gives the seller access to all those buyers who choose to work with a Realtor.Because 76% of sales are a result of direct referal that gets the seller more offers and the best possible price. Even though sellers who have not listed with Realtor try to cooperate with Realtors; in most instances a Realtor can find a listed home without having to perform twice the work involved with the non-listed home. As a consequence the unlisted home gets virtually no exposure to the available buyers working with agents. In addition, a Realtor can make sure Buyers making offers are qualified thereby eliminating lost marketing time and reducing inconvenience to the Seller. An experienced Realtor can provide advice to make a property show better, relay feedback Buyers are reluctant to share directly with a Seller, and provide arms-length practiced negotiating skills. After the sale the Realtor can guide the Seller through the many steps required prior to settlement and make sure settlement occurs on time without extra closing expenses.

Mortgage companies offer better rates on those mortgages they are currently selling the most. During one month they may be placing more conventional mortgages and the next month the same mortgage company may be placing more FHA mortgages. Realtors often know which mortgage companies are currently specializing in the mortgage that will meet a particular Buyer's need. Using that information the Buyer can get the best terms on the type of mortgage that best meets their needs.