Choosing a Real Estate Buying Agent

A Real estate buying agent is your advocate through what can be a stressful process. They can help buyers find homes that match their budget, explain how much they should offer for a property and assist with the negotiation of terms. They can also help navigate home inspections, decipher paperwork and understand real estate jargon. When choosing an agent, consider whether their communication style and work ethic mesh with your own.

The Role of a Real Estate Buying Agent: Making Property Purchases Easy

A buyer’s agent can be particularly helpful for first-time buyers or repeat buyers who haven’t purchased a property in decades. They can guide you through the process and provide information about local neighborhoods and specific types of properties, which may be unfamiliar to you. A good buyer’s agent can also explain the buying process for different property types (condo, co-op or single-family home) and laws governing each type.

Using the MLS, a buyer’s agent can find properties that match your criteria and schedule viewings. They can also share insight based on comparable sales and other market data, which can be harder to uncover on real estate websites. For example, an agent can help determine a seller’s motivation based on their financial situation and personal details (e.g. a recently divorced person, someone who is moving out of town, or a pending foreclosure).

An experienced buyer’s agent will be able to negotiate terms for you. They can help you decide on an offer price, answer counter-offers and, if necessary, win a bidding war. They can also advise you on the best way to approach a potential seller and what contingencies are necessary in the purchase contract.…