Have you ever wondered what a buyer’s agent does or how much it costs you as a buyer to hire one?
In this blog, we will explain the role that a buyer’s agent plays throughout your purchasing process.
First of all, home buyers do not need to worry about the cost of hiring a buyer’s agent. In most situations, sellers listed with a Realtor will pay a buyer’s agent fee. Yep you heard that right, it doesn’t cost you anything to have an agent assist you in buying a home!
Here is a list of things that a Realtor® can do for you:
- Connect you with the best lenders
- Find the right property for you
- Negotiate an offer
- Recommend other professionals
- Communicate with lender, title company and listing agent
- Finalize all loose ends before closing
Getting Pre-approved
As a buyer, it is important to get pre-approved before looking for a home. This helps both you and your real estate agent when determining the type of home that is going to work best for your needs. Your Realtor® can help you connect with lenders can get you pre-approved fast and get you in your new home quickly! One thing to keep in mind is the difference between being pre-approved and prequalified.
Helping you Find a Home
Once your agent has determined what you are looking for and what you can afford, they can begin searching for your perfect home. Real estate agents have access to a local Multiple Listing Service database that allows them to easily sort through the homes in your area. They can also schedule appointments to show you listings that match your search.
Negotiating
When it comes time to making an offer, it can be beneficial to have someone who is skilled in negotiating. Negotiations continue throughout the transaction from negotiating repairs to re-negotiating if the appraisal comes in low. Having an agent that is experienced can save you money and headaches in the long run. In fact, we have agents who are in the process of completing extensive courses to become Certified Negotiation Experts.
Recommending Other Professionals
Most agents work with other industry professionals on a daily basis. Therefore, they are able to recommend the best of the best when it comes to home inspectors, real estate attorneys, mortgage brokers, movers, contractors and more.
Communicating with Lender, Title Company and Listing Agent
There are a bunch of moving parts involved in every real estate transaction and everyone needs to be on the same page. Your Realtor® is there to make sure the line of communication stays open between the title company, lender and the seller’s agent.
Finalizing all Loose Ends Before Closing
You can’t move in to your new home until the transaction has successfully closed. Your real estate agent is there to help take care of all the little details that arise prior to your close date from low appraisals last minute repairs.
Final Thoughts
You should have high expectations when it comes to choosing a buyer’s agent. Here at Triangle Realty, our agents are experienced and trained in the buying process. Give us a call today and let us assist you in finding your dream home!