In the past, a real estate agent
primarily represented the seller. While the real estate agent helped with buying
a home, she always gave the seller's interests first priority. This gave the
seller an advantage over potential home buyers.
Today, house-hunters can
find buyer's agents: real estate agents committed to helping home buyers find
the house they want and get the best possible deal.
Real Estate Broker
Some real estate agents work through
brokers, independent organizations that sell houses. Agents work with brokers on
a contract basis. If you see a house you wish to buy and contact the broker
about that specific house, be aware that the real estate agent assigned by the
broker will represent the seller. This is in the best interest of both the
broker and the seller. Brokers will often handle home inspections, financing and
insurance.
If you contact a real estate agent with the intent of having
the agent find you a house, she is assumed to be representing you, regardless of
any connection the agent has to the broker companies.
Real Estate Agent Differences
When buying a house, it makes sense
to use a buyer's agent. A buyer's real estate agent will work to get you the
home you want at the best possible deal, as opposed to a seller's agent,
who will be concerned with getting the best price for the property. A buyer's
real estate agent can be expected to:
- assist you throughout the entire process
- calculate the market value of the house compared to the seller's asking
price
- have professional home buying certification
- maintain confidentiality and loyalty
- take your personal needs into account
- tell you about the house owners and why they are selling.
A buyer's real estate agent should be willing to provide you with a list of
the property's drawbacks as well as its advantages. The agent should help you
decide whether to accept an offer and advise you on real estate contracts during your home buying
experience.
Finding the Right Real Estate Agent
Buying a home is complicated, so
being comfortable with your real estate agent is important. Take the time to
interview several prospective agents. Asking the following questions may help
you decide if the real estate agent is right for you.
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
- Do you arrange house inspections, house appraisals, and insurance?
- Do you sell houses as well as help with home buying?
- How many buyers do you currently represent?
- How much experience do you have in home buying?
- What real estate broker are you affiliated with?
- What types of property are you familiar with?
- What's the average cost of purchases you arrange?
Real Estate Contracts: Negotiating with the Buyer's Agent
A real estate contract is
complicated. A good buyer's real estate agent can explain all the details and
let you know where and when negotiation is appropriate. Finding a good agent was
once as difficult as finding the right home. Today, all you need is a
computer, access to the Internet and a few clicks of the mouse.
The
development of a real estate contract begins when you finalize the price and
terms with the home seller. The process ends at closing, at which point you take
possession of your home. You should review a standard real estate contract with
your agent before you view any houses so that you know what to expect once you
make an offer.
Making an Offer Through Your Real Estate Agent
The first step in buying a home is
to make an offer on a suitable property. Your real estate agent should provide
you with a market analysis detailing the selling price of similar houses in the
neighborhood over the last year. This information will help you make a fair
offer.
This is where your needs will come into play. Your real estate
agent will assume you want to buy at or below market price, and will bargain
accordingly. If you're willing to compete with other potential buyers and pay
the asking price or higher, let your real estate agent know: this will influence
how she negotiates your real estate contract.
Seller Motivation Affects Contract Negotiation
If possible, find out why the seller is moving and negotiate a contract
based on this information. Retirees usually want as high a profit as possible,
while urgent events (illness, marriage, job transfers) may mean the seller will
settle for a price below market value. Ask your real estate agent how seller
motivation may affect your offer and contract.
Sellers may be willing to
settle for less if you have a pre-approved mortgage because your financing is
already secured. Sellers may also be influenced by a down payment exceeding what
is required.
Considerations When Developing a Real Estate Contract
Discuss the following
points with your real estate agent when negotiating a real estate contract:
- Is there a mortgage escape clause? If there isn't, you will be legally
required to purchase despite financing.
- Is the seller willing to offer concessions such as a roof repair or paint
allowance?
- What appliances and fixtures are included in the price?
- Who pays for transaction costs (brokers commissions, lawyer or escrow fees)?
Source: www.RealEstate.com