When you sell a home, sellers usually hire a Realtor to assist you in the selling process, to market your home, guide you in staging, and generally assist you in selling your house. However, what many prospective buyers don’t realise is that the seller’s agent does not work on their behalf as well. Legally, a seller’s agent works only for the seller and has to disclose to them only.
While a seller’s agent will be more than happy for buyers to work with them directly, they do not really represent both parties. A buyer’s agent is contractually obligated to look after your best interests when pursuing a home sale for you.
When you decide to buy a home, you should research local agents in your area who you think you might like to represent you in a home purchasing endeavour. Take time to interview potential agents so that you can pick someone who seems like a good fit and has experience in acting as a buyer’s agent. Being able to work with someone you trust can make the whole experience a lot more pleasant overall.
If you are looking to buy into a particular area, you can generally find a buyer’s agent who knows all about that area and can show you all the listings in a particular neighbourhood. They are also obligated to let you know about any potential problems that a home or neighbourhood might have that a seller’s agent isn’t obligated to tell you about.
Don’t be tempted to forgo hiring a buyer’s agent just to save a little money when you buy a house either; buyer’s agents split the home sale commission with a seller’s agent. When only a seller’s agent is involved with the transaction, they usually earn a 6% commission on a home; when both a seller’s and buyer’s agent are involved, they each receive a 3% commission instead. So, using a buyer’s agent can help you save money in the long run because they can help you negotiate a better price.
To get the more fair business transaction possible with the most transparency, it is well within your best interests to do the research and find yourself a good buyer’s agent to represent you and your family when you are looking for a home. Not only can you get a better price on a home, but you may also find a home that better fits your needs than by looking on your own.
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