There’s a common misconception out there that buying a home with cash is always a faster and easier option than financing. If you have the funds to buy a home in cash (congrats on that saving, by the way), financing might actually be a better option. Financing your purchase with a qualified lender offers homebuyers a host of unique advantages that cash buyers just can’t enjoy. If you’re weighing your cash vs. financing options, consider the following:

Interviewing potential real estate agents before deciding on whom to hire is a good idea. It’s in your best interest to ask them some or all of the following questions to gauge their knowledge and fit with your needs. Take a look below, and let us know if there are any other questions you’ve found valuable when interviewing agents.

Though your search for homes may start online, it won’t end there. You can do a lot of research on your own. The National Association of Realtors reported that 68% of home buyers found the home they ended up buying on their phone last year, but once you find your perfect home, you will need the help of an expert when it comes to actually securing it.  A buyer’s agent can help you navigate through the home-buying process. When it comes to making an offer, your agent will negotiate on your behalf so you don’t pay a penny more than you have to.