Do I really need A Real Estate Agent When Buying a Home?

Reasons to use a buyer’s agent when purchasing your new home.

Should you work with a real estate agent, specifically a buyer’s agent, when purchasing a home?  In the internet age is a real estate agent really necessary?

Let’s face it; technology has evolved to the point where prospective homebuyers have access to thousands upon thousands of property listings.  There are dozens of websites where a buyer can enter a zip code, square footage and price range requirements and be instantly rewarded with page after page of available properties for sale.  However, today’s homebuyers still benefit immensely from the services of a qualified buyer’s agent.  If you are in the market to buy your first, second or even third home, here are some of the reasons you should consider working with a buyer’s agent when searching for the perfect property.

•  Buyer’s Agents Services Are Free

When a real estate agent works with you, as the buyer, their services are totally free.  Your real estate agent will make a commission from the sale of the home you purchase, which is paid by the seller.  Your real estate agent won’t get paid unless he or she finds you the perfect property.  Obviously, there is nothing to lose in this scenario.  Your buyer’s agent won’t get a dime until you are happy and smiling with the keys to your new house in hand.  Taking advantage of all the services a buyer’s agent has to offer is just good common sense, and costs you absolutely nothing!

•   Your Buyer’s Agent Only Works For You

When you work with a buyer’s agent you have an advocate who is only working for you.  Compare this, for instance, to working with a seller’s agent.  If you pop into that perfect cape cod down the street during an open house, fall in love, and write an offer with the realtor who has his or her name on the ‘for sale’ sign, you are working with the agent who also represents the sellers.  This isn’t to say that the seller’s real estate agent will do anything shady or dishonest, but let’s face it, it’s hard to represent both the seller and the buyer, (is there any clearer conflict of interest)? However, when you approach the same scenario with your own buyer’s agent on board, you enter into negotiations with an advocate who only represents YOUR interests.  A buyer’s agent is an invaluable and free resource.

•  Your Buyer’s Agent Knows Your Needs

Your buyer’s agent will take the time to get to know you.  Yes, anyone can search the web for available properties, but your buyer’s agent will do much more than a cursory web search.  He or she will take the time to ask questions and pin point your needs and wants.  Your agent will diligently show you properties and make notes on things you like and dislike about those properties.  He or she will refer to this list as they research listings and narrow down the choices that best suit your needs.  But don’t worry….your buyer’s agent will happily show you properties that you have discovered online as well.  It’s the best of both worlds!

•  A Buyer’s Agent Will See You Through to the End

Your buyer’s agent will be with you through the entire process, from the initial offer to the closing of your loan, and every step in between.  He or she will keep advocating for your interests throughout the entire process until each line is signed and the keys are in your hand.  At the end of the day, your buyer’s agent won’t be happy until you are.  Technology has definitely come a long way, but nothing will ever replace the need for a good buyer’s agent.  Buying home is a huge investment; it only makes sense to have a good advocate by your side.

 

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