We’re Answering your Questions About Real Estate Agents! (Part Two)
Buyer’s Agents
You’re getting ready to buy your first home and you’ve been doing tons of research online. Maybe you’ve attended a couple of open houses and you’ve been dreaming about your own future new house. The possibilities are endless and this is an exciting time in your life, but then reality kicks in and the process can be overwhelming! Where should you start? Let us help break it down for you with some of the most commonly asked questions and answers!
Should I hire a real estate agent to help guide me through the process? What about those high fees?
Yes! You should absolutely hire a buyer’s agent when purchasing a home. What most people don’t know is that using a buyer’s agent won’t cost you anything! Agent commissions are paid by the seller at the time of the closing.
What are some other benefits of having a buyer’s agent?
REALTORS® are experts in the industry and are familiar with market trends and local neighborhood data, zoning ordinances etc. Their experience and knowledge is valuable and they handle the logistics to make the process as smooth as possible and less stressful for you! Some other benefits include:
- Explanation/navigation through the home buying process
- Referrals to recommended lenders, inspectors, title officers, etc.
- Finding listings and touring homes with you
- Access to local comparable homes and sold data
- Writing purchase agreements and negotiating offers
- Coordinating inspections
- Ensuring terms of deal are met/maintaining schedule to close
Great! That makes sense. So should I just call the agent advertised on the listing to hire them?
You can certainly do that, but it is recommended that you interview and hire your own agent. A buyer’s agent works solely for you and has only your best interest in mind. If you work with the seller’s agent, it’s important to know that this agent was hired by the seller and their first goal is to have the seller’s best interest in mind. It is best to have your own representation.
What are some things I should consider when interviewing potential agents?
Do your homework and interview a few different real estate agents with various brokerages. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be up front about the fact that you’re interviewing other agents before making any decisions. Select the agent that you’re most comfortable working with and has the best knowledge of current market trends in your desired neighborhoods. Once you’ve hired your agent you can start seeing homes and taking steps toward your future!
Where can I find real estate agents to interview?
- Your local Association of REALTORS®
- Referrals from family and friends
- Online search engines
- Social Media – ie. Looking for Recommendations on Facebook
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