It may be clear if you’re a seller that hiring a real estate agent is a no-brainer. But when you’re on the hunt to buy a house, do you also need an agent? Before you sign on the dotted line, a dedicated buyer’s agent who knows what they’re doing will have already done a multitude of things for you, from sending you listings of properties in your price range to negotiating with sellers.
Here are some great reasons why you need an agent in your house search.
1. It’s Free – Hiring a buyer’s agent won’t cost you anything, at least about 99 percent of the time. Your buyer’s agent is going to get paid by the seller of the home once it’s sold. Not only is the buyer’s agent service free, but they can save you a lot of money and time throughout the process.
2. They Work Exclusively For You – The listing agent is automatically working for the seller. They can certainly work both sides, but it could be an ethical dilemma. It definitely has to be disclosed, and both sides have to agree. When you hire a buyer’s agent, they work for you and you alone. Some people think they’ll save money by going to the seller’s agent, but this is a myth that could cost you a lot in the long run.
For example, you could save $2,000 dollars in commission but if you overpay on a home by $10,000, this translates to a net loss of about $8,000! On top of that, the seller’s agent will do everything they can to close the sale, not necessarily what’s best for your needs – especially in this fiercely competitive seller’s market.
3. They Have Experience – Settling on the right property can be a frustrating and time-consuming process. If you go it alone, you can waste hours, days, and weeks looking at properties that are just not the right match for you. A buyer’s agent will sit down with you, take note of all your wants and needs, look at your budget and your wish list, and be on the lookout for you.
Your agent can send you listings solely of properties that fit your parameters so you don’t waste time looking at houses you can’t afford or that don’t have the amenities you want. They can also look further into the houses you like and let you know honestly if they’re worth your time to go see.
A buyer’s agent with a lot of experience will be able to quickly detect common problems that could become a big headache for you later on, from damp basements to roofing problems to leaks.
4. They Know the Area – If you’re new to the area, you don’t know the neighborhoods, the nuances in the homes, the best places to raise kids, the best school systems, and the lowest crime rates. Your buyer’s agent does. They have local knowledge of the area; indeed, they often live in the town you’re looking to move to. They know the neighborhoods that are sought-after and appealing to most buyers, and which ones aren’t.
Ultimately, a buyer’s agent is looking out for your best interests. Period.
Contact Berkshire Hathaway Premier Properties
Ready to start house hunting? All you have to do is contact one of Berkshire Hathaway Premier Properties’ buyer’s agents today to get started at 832-626-4889.