There are a number of parties involved at each step in a real estate transaction. From the obvious to the not-so-obvious, we've defined each of the parties and their roles so you can be sure you're engaging the appropriate people.

• Buyer: Purchaser of the subject property
• Seller: Legal owner of the subject property
• Buyer’s Agent: Represents and negotiates on behalf of the buyer in the purchase of the subject property
• Seller’s Agent: Lists the subject property and represents and negotiates on behalf of the seller in the sale of the subject property
• Inspector: A licensed professional hired by the buyer to inspect the home for any material defects once an offer has been accepted by the seller 
• Attorney: Hired by both the buyer and seller to draft and negotiate the contract and coordinate the closing
• Lender: A bank, credit union and mortgage broker that lends money to the buyer for the purchase of the home
• Appraiser: A third party hired by the lender to determine the value of the home