If you are looking to buy a home in a market with many buyers but low inventory, you may find yourself in for a challenge. Sellers' markets can be very challenging to navigate, and you may find yourself in more than one bidding war for a home. Finding the right property in this kind of market takes preparation and often a little luck. Having a real estate agent by your side can also increase your odds of finding a home in a competitive market. Here are three ways a real estate agent can help.

They Have Local Knowledge

If you want to buy a home in a surging real estate market, the local knowledge that an experienced real estate agent can offer is invaluable. A real estate agent will know where your best options are for homeownership in a hot real estate market. They understand what neighborhoods may suit your needs and which ones won't. Your real estate agent will also show you properties that may not be on your radar, but that would be good options for your future home. 

Access to Pocket Listings

Finding a home in an active real estate market can feel like a race. In a hot real estate market, a single listing will likely have many motivated buyers interested. One way to get around this is by seeking out pocket listings, which are not available to the general public. Many real estate agents have exclusive access to pocket listings, which can come in handy in a very competitive market for buyers. If you are interested in this type of listing, hiring a real estate agent is the best way to find them.

They Can Point You To The Right Lender

Having your financing ready to go is vital if you want to buy in a seller's market. Anything that slows down the closing process may end up losing you the home you are interested in buying. Your real estate agent will be able to point you to lenders who can help you get the loan you require quickly. Often, local lenders understand the local real estate market and buyers' needs better than other lenders. Your real estate agent can help you find the right fit.

If you live in a competitive real estate market and want to buy a home, using a real estate agent is a good idea. Real estate agents know the market well and can help you find the right home for the best price. Using a real estate agent can also give you access to pocket listings and other properties that you may otherwise not hear about. Real estate agents also have valuable connections to local lenders who can meet your financing needs.