So, you’re on the hunt for a new home…maybe even your first home. It’s fun to look at listings, go to open houses, and tell everyone you know to keep their eyes open for you. But sooner or later it may not be as much fun. Many houses aren’t the right fit for one reason or another. Or, you see a property you really like, but another offer has been accepted before you can figure out what to offer – or even how to make an offer. This is why you need a Buyer’s Agent.
No one ever said buying a house was easy.
Which brings us to today’s topic: the importance of having a Buyer’s Agent. It’s this realtor’s job to make your search easier. A Buyer’s Agent will show you properties that more closely meet your criteria, advise you every step of the way and always protect your interests. A good Buyer’s Agent should literally become your ‘best friend’ during your search.
Here’s why having your own Buyer’s Agent is so important:
- In a real estate market where the inventory of homes for sale is low, a Buyer’s Agent can get you in to see properties that fit your criteria almost as soon as they are listed. If you love the property, you want to be in a position to make the first offer. A Buyer’s Agent working for you may often know about these opportunities before you ever see them listed.
- The legal and contractual aspects of buying a home are more complex than many of us realize. Do you know how to write an offer or counter a counter offer? Are you able to negotiate add-ons and ensure you can back out if the home inspection fails? If you had appendicitis, you wouldn’t try to remove the appendix yourself, you’d turn to an expert – your doctor. Buying a home is probably the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. Which means that it’s only smart to use an expert – your own Buyer’s Agent – to ensure you’re protected throughout the process.
- Are you doing your own home search? If so, be careful when talking with a Listing Agent at an open house or one who you called about a listing. Ethically, Listing Agents should disclose that they represent the seller and therefore can’t represent you as the buyer. This is because they must always put the interests of their client – the seller – first. Their obligation to the seller is to get the best possible price, which clearly isn’t to your advantage. Nor are they likely to point out issues with a home that a Buyer’s Agent would advise you about to protect your interests. While a Listing Agent can list and sell a property, they always represent the seller, not the buyer.
Qualifications and Experience
Buying a new home is exciting, but it requires more than just a willingness to put gas in the car and drive around looking at properties. It means partnering with a realtor – your own Buyer’s Agent – who has the qualifications and experience to educate you throughout the process. Your Buyer’s agent will counsel you on price, negotiate on your behalf, help you evaluate the home inspection, and always protect your interests.
Once you’re in your new home, you’ll pat yourself on the back for having made the wise decision to start your home search by finding a good Buyer’s Agent.
