5 Reasons to Work With a Buyer's Agent

Did you know that buyer representation is a relatively new concept in real estate?? Before the 1990s, when a buyer was being assisted by any agent, that agent was known as a sub-agent and technically represented and owed a fiduciary duty to the seller. So the agent showing the home had a legal obligation to protect the seller's best interests...not yours (wild, I know). While sub-agency does still exist (if no buyer agreement is in place), buyer representation as of the early 1990s was established to provide protection to buyers. For the first time ever, buyers could have agents represent them and those agents now had a fiduciary duty to act in the buyer's best interest.

When making one of the most significant financial transactions of your lifetime, you deserve an expert advisor to guide you through the process and protect your interests...not the sellers. On top of that, below are my 5 top to work with a buyer's agent:

1. LOCAL EXPERTISE AND BUYER INSIGHTS -- Armed with in-depth knowledge of the area and its market intricacies, agents are there to by your guide, shedding light on local nuances (the local market can be tricky as each neighborhood and house is truly different and presenting properties you may have overlooked.

2. ACCURATE PROPERTY VALUATION -- With a keen eye for market trends and property values, agents provide you with a realistic assessment of what a property is truly worth, independent of its listed price (and what the Zestimate may say).

3. EXPERT CONTRACT NEGOTIATION -- Agents work to negotiate key contract terms, safeguard your interests, and minimize your risk. And negotiation doesn't end once the contract is ratified. Agents are actively negotiating on your behalf throughout the process.

4. CLOSING ASSISTANCE -- We are the best project managers out there, ensuring every deadline is met, 'i' is dotted and 't' is crossed. We ensure all necessary steps are taken care of and that everything is in order, sparing you from any last-minute headaches or surprises.

5. PROBLEM RESOLUTION -- Most of the time, agents try to safeguard you from any problems that arise or any unexpected challenges or hiccups that may create a rocky path forward.
   

I also think it is important to work with someone you trust, like and get along with. You will spend quite some time with your agent, so finding someone you like is important.

I would love to help guide you through your homebuying journey! If you have any further questions or want to know more about the full process, please reach out!