When you’re buying a home, the financial stakes are high and the emotional stakes can be even higher—but the rewards can pay dividends for a lifetime in many, many ways. Owning a home can improve your quality of life, provide stability, and give you a sense of control that you just can’t get from renting. Sure, renting can give you a nice place to live, but buying gives you something much deeper and better. It gives you a home. For life.

This is precisely why the importance of having a real estate agent in your corner cannot be overstated.

A real estate transaction is a complex process involving stacks of paperwork, innumerable legal layers, and a whole bunch of people—buyers, sellers, lenders, outside service providers, contractors, and more. A home buyer’s agent with experience, character, and a commitment to people-first service can guide you through that process from start to finish. They can answer your questions, be your advocate when you’re unsure, and do the legwork so you can rest easy. Not only will a good real estate agent help you find the property that fits your needs, they’ll look at the big financial picture and give you educated advice on the wisest course of action. They’ll submit offers and counteroffers, suggest a good property inspector, connect you with great professionals, and provide all sorts of crucial guidance.

With a buyer’s agent—especially a RE/MAX Parkside agent—you don’t just have an agent. You have a friend in your corner and on your side who is looking out for your best interests every step of the way.