Today’s internet-empowered consumer may think they have access to all the information they need to make a home purchase on their own.  Sometimes buyer’s don’t understand that they may get better results if they commit to working with a qualified real estate professional.

What is a Buyer’s Agent?

A buyer’s agent is a real estate brokerage acting exclusively on behalf of the property buyer to assist their client during the entire purchasing process.

A written contract, called a “buyer representation agreement” creates an agency relationship between the buyer and the brokerage, and establishes buyer representation.

It is a common misconception that just because a real estate agent is showing you properties that he or she is automatically working for you. This most definitely is not the case.

What A Buyer’s Representative Does

During the search process, the buyer’s representative:

• Searches for properties and provides information to the buyer
• Arranges property showings that meet the buyer’s needs
• Provides information that the buyer requests about the home or property, community, taxes, utilities and zoning, or refers the buyer to appropriate information sources
• Discloses any material facts about the property of which the buyer’s rep has knowledge.

During the offer process, the buyer’s representative:

• Prepares a competitive market analysis of the property for the buyer
• Counsels the buyer on what price to offer to the seller
• Shows what other buyers have paid for properties in the area
• Assists in writing an offer with the buyer’s interest in mind
• Negotiates the best price and terms for the buyer
• Keeps the price capabilities and objectives of the buyer confidential.

During the closing process, the buyer’s representative:

• Monitors all dates, events, and requirements (fulfillment of conditions) for the buyer
• Attends the pre-closing viewing with the buyer.

Ask yourself these questions and see if a buyer’s representative is the right choice for you:

1. Do I have time to not only research the residential housing market but also understand the best type of property to buy based upon my needs?

2. Do I have access to the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on properties for sale?

3. Do I understand how to accurately interpret market data?

4. Do I know how to interpret this data in a way that will help me structure an attractive offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted?

5. Am I familiar with the common residential real estate contract and how to interpret various clauses to best protect myself from making common buyer mistakes?

6. Do I have the expertise to negotiate on my own behalf when, for the most part, the seller’s side has a real estate professional assisting the seller with negotiations?

7. Do I have the ability to find a qualified home inspector? What about other qualified professionals needed in the real estate transaction?

8. Do I have time to research current home loan programs and determine which one is best for me?

9. Do I know the zoning regulations and building codes pertaining to residential real estate in the area I’m interested in moving to? Do I understand how this may impact my plans to use or modify the property I want to purchase?

These issues and so many more will come up during the home buying process. Having a buyer’s representative who has earned the ABR designation will be a great asset to you the buyer in today’s confusing and challenging real estate marketplace.

Contact me today so I can show you how my ABR designation can help you.

Part 1: Why Do I Need A Buyer’s Agent to Purchase a Home?  
Part 2: 5 Reasons To Sign A Buyers Representation Agreement
Part 3: Choosing A Buyer’s Agent