Working With A Buyer's Agent |
|---|
Why You Need A Real Estate Professional Working For You
When you are ready to buy a home, getting your own real estate agent makes the process go more smoothly. The National Association of Realtors estimates nine out of 10 homebuyers use a real estate agent in the search process. Although the Internet makes some aspects of finding homes easier, as real estate agents we have access to lots of market information not available to the public, including the current asking and selling prices of comparable homes in the area. We will help you use that knowledge to negotiate an acceptable purchase price that benefits both you and the seller, truly a win-win situation.
Buyer's Agent
Using the seller's real estate agent does not protect your interests. While some buyers may complain about their experiences with aggressive listing agents, they should not be confused with buyer's agents. A buyer's agent protects your interests. Agents who represent buyers only are known as exclusive buyer agents.
Both agents can set up house tours, but unlike the listing agent who represents the seller, a buyer's agent protects the buyer's interests during the crucial negotiating and closing process. As your buyers agent we bargain with the seller on the selling price, facilitates the home inspection, negotiates contingencies and assists you through the closing paperwork. Shopping without a buyer's agent is a little like grilling tenderloin without a meat thermometer; you might not know there's a problem until you're sitting at the table.
Exclusive vs. Dual
An agent can be both a listing agent and a buyer's agent. Many agents have started specializing, dividing themselves more clearly into one of these two camps. This has given rise to the "exclusive buyer's agent," who doesn't list properties at all. This agent solely represents you and avoids potential conflicts of interest with sellers.
You can, of course, choose an agent who represents both sellers and buyers. A "dual agent" is still bound by the Agency Disclosure Pamphlet from the OREGON REAL ESTATE AGENCY.
Who Pays?
The real estate broker's fee is determined through the listing contract between the seller and the listing broker. Typically, the listing agent and the buyer's agent split the commission from the transaction. You may have heard that sellers factor in the cost of commissions when they price their homes. In fact, the current real estate market determines the sale price of real estate and the real estate brokers commissions are a cost of selling just like the cost of escrow, title insurance and recording fees.
Real estate agents build their business on their reputations. A great way to start your search is to ask family and friends for recommendations. Do a search in your geographical area. Many agents have personal websites that explain their business philosophy and areas of expertise. Set up meetings with several different agents and choose one you feel comfortable with. There are many different business styles and personalities in the real estate field. You should feel confidence and trust in your choice.
What We Provide Our Buyers.
We have been in the real estate business for a combined 30 years in Lane County. We know this area and have pride in our community andcan help you find just the right property that fits your criteria. Because we work as a team we can work within your schedule and time frames. We like to customize our business plan with our buyers. Do you like receiving automated searches to review or do you like a more hands on approach - let's schedule some time to go look at some properties. Once we locate a home and negotiate an accepted offer, we roll up our sleeves and get to work. We can offer assistance with the loan process, working with escrow, guiding you through the inspection process and all the way through the post sale follow up.
When you are ready to start looking for your new home, give us a call or send us an email. We are ready to help.
