Don't Go It Alone! The Importance of Choosing the Right REALTOR

What is a REALTOR®?


Only real estate professionals who are members of the Michigan Association of REALTORS® (MAR) can call themselves REALTORS®. All REALTORS® adhere to MAR's strict Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. That's why all real estate licensees are NOT the same.

Dedicated to serving Michigan's property owners at both local and state levels, the Michigan Association of REALTORS®, The Voice for Real Estate®, is the largest professional association in the state at over 25,000 members strong. So, whether you're buying or selling a home - it pays to work with a REALTOR®. Look for the REALTOR® logo when choosing your real estate agent.

For those interested in selling their home, A REALTOR®:

• Can give you up-to-date information about the market, prices, financing, terms, and conditions of competing properties
• Will market your property to other real estate agents and to the public
• Will know when, where, and how to best market your property
• Can help you objectively evaluate every buyer's proposal without compromising your market position
• Can help close the sale of your home

For those looking to buy a home, A REALTOR®:

• Has many resources to assist you in your home search
• Can provide objective information about each property
• Can help you negotiate
• Can help you determine your buying power
• Provides guidance during the evaluation of the property
• Can guide you through the closing process and make sure everything flows together smoothly
• Most importantly, REALTORS® adhere to a strict Code of Ethics, ensuring that you will receive honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters

The Code of Ethics: A Commitment to the Public

The Code of Ethics of the Michigan Association of REALTORS® is the promise to the public that when dealing with a real estate agent that is a REALTOR®, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction related matters. Only REALTORS® pledge to abide by the Association's Code of Ethics and only REALTORS® are held accountable for their ethical behavior.
Some of the basic principles of the Code of Ethics include:

• Protect and promote the client's interests, but be honest with all parties
• Avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, and concealment of pertinent facts.
• Do not reveal facts that are confidential under the scope of your agency relationship
• Disclose present or contemplated interest in any property to all parties
• Avoid side deals without your client's confirmed consent
• Accept compensation from only one party, except with full disclosure and informed consent
• Keep the funds of clients and customers in escrow
• Assure, whenever possible, that transactional details are in writing
• Provide equal service to all clients and customers
• Be knowledgeable and competent in the fields of practice in which you ordiMARily engage. Obtain assistance or disclose lack of experience if necessary
• Do not engage in the unauthorized practice of law

For more information, consult the complete Code of Ethics from the Michigan Association of REALTORS®.

Call us with all of your Real Estate Needs! 616.366.5240

Have a Wonderful Day! -The Northouse Team

Five Star Real Estate/ Jeff Northouse

Visit the GR Homelink Website!             Email Jeff Northouse

Stay Safe In Summer!

According to recent statistics, many Michigan residents' favorite season is also the most dangerous! Yes, unfortunately crime rates in many areas rise right along with the temperature during summer months.

Home invasions increase during the summer months due to lighter security; namely, open windows and homes left empty during vacations. Hot weather and school closures also mean more people outdoors and on the street than during the colder months here in Michigan. Luckily, there are several simple precautions to take in order to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home this summer!

Be Aware!

The summer gives us all a chance to relax and enjoy longer days filled with fun activities, but it's also important to stay alert and not let the basics get lost in the summer shuffle:

• Lock your doors and windows. Don't forget to keep the door from your garage to your home locked, especially if you keep your garage door open.

Securing Your Home During Your Vacation

We all look forward to our summer vacations. But whether you are heading to Florida to visit Grandma, camping at Lake Michigan, or heading to the cottage for the weekend, it's important to take precautions before leaving.

• Install motion sensor lights around the outside of your home.
• Put indoor lights on timers so they come on at different times, making it appear as if someone is home.
• Have a trusted neighbor or friend collect your mail and newspapers.
• For extended trips, pay someone to cut your lawn and pick-up any litter or trash.
• Engage the garage door lock before you leave (use the lock on the wall box or on the main device overhead).
• Be sure your trusted neighbors know you are away so they can keep an eye on your home.

Remember- No matter how busy you are, you are never too busy to be safe!

[Tips courtesy of mirealtors.com and Andrew Wooten]

Call us with all of your Real Estate Needs! 616.366.5240

Have a Wonderful Day! -The Northouse Team

Five Star Real Estate/ Jeff Northouse 

Visit the GR Homelink Website!                        Email Jeff Northouse