The Importance of a Buyer's Agent

A real estate transaction is a complex process involving stacks of paperwork, complex negotiations, important commitment dates, and a number of outside service providers and contractors.  An experienced buyer's agent can guide you through the process, answering your questions and serving as your advocate.

Your agent will help you find the property that fits your needs, submit offers and counteroffers, suggest a good property inspector and other professionals, and provide all sorts of relevant advice. With a buyer's agent, you'll have someone on your side, looking out for your interests every step of the way.

A Good Buyer's Agent

Should help you in many ways. For example, your agent should help you...

Be better educated...

  • Give you the most vital information on available homes
  • Keep you aware of changes in the real estate marketplace
  • Arrange a tour of neighborhoods, schools and key points of interest as necessary
  • Check applicable zoning and building restrictions
  • Disclose all known facts about properties shown to you
  • Collect pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc.
  • Point out strengths and weaknesses of all properties you choose to view
  • Explain forms, contracts, escrow and settlement procedures
  • Discuss loan qualification and processing

Save time...

  • Provide ready access to all MLS-listed properties
  • Assist you, as needed, on all unlisted properties
  • Help you select for viewing only those homes that fit your needs
  • Show you homes only in the price range most suited to your finances
  • Provide you a list of qualified contractors, home inspectors and other service providers
  • Arrange for necessary property inspections with the service providers you select

Find the best value...

  • Prepare studies of property values in certain neighborhoods, as appropriate
  • Perform a market analysis on chosen properties
  • Discuss financing alternatives
  • See the you get a complete estimate of all costs involved
  • Advise you on offers on properties
  • Write and present your purchase agreement to the seller
  • Negotiate on your behalf

And should be fully-committed to you, the buyer, and

  • Keep your personal information confidential at all times
  • Stay in touch with you from Day 1 until the day you move in
  • Coordinate all aspects of the sale and closing
  • Be compensated with a commission only when the transaction is successfully closed