That is the question – for your REALTOR®. Whether determining your equity position, identifying qualified buyers, deciding on the appropriate asking price, or simply staging the home, a REALTOR® is the very
first (and best) step towards resolving the question of whether to sell now or wait until later.

“What about the real estate market? Shouldn’t I wait and see what the interest rates do?” you ask. Are
you afraid you’re not quite sure what that even means? Well, not to worry. REALTORS® possess the
expertise necessary to help you make an informed decision concerning the most effective method of
maximizing the value of one of your greatest assets.

REALTORS® are trained to assist you in determining your equity position through a thorough analysis of
your current mortgage in comparison to current sales of comparable homes in your area. They are your
greatest resource for determining the best use of the equity in your home. Whether your goal is to pay
off debt, invest in more real estate, or simply to determine what it would cost to maintain your current
lifestyle at current market rates, your REALTOR® is there to help you through the difficult decision making process.

REALTORS® are also there to guide you through the entire real estate acquisition process, from start to
finish. The relationship with your REALTOR® does not end at the closing table. Your REALTOR® is also
the person you should call when considering refinancing your home. They follow the current, local
market trends and they know how to keep you abreast of changing conditions affecting the value of
your property. Moreover, they have knowledge of a variety of mortgage financing options and can help to
prepare you for adjustments in your mortgage payments resulting from the utilization of home equity
lines, refinancing, or the re-sale of your property and the acquisition of other real estate.

So, instead of traveling alone through the darkness of unfamiliar territory in hopes of maneuvering your
way safely through, take advantage of the resource that is right within your reach – a professional
REALTOR® who will light the path and guide you every step of the way.

Written by: Marion McGee, JAL Realty