Why Hiring a Buyer's Agent on your Home Purchase is Extra Important
You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions. And if you’re following along, it can be pretty confusing. But here’s the thing you really need to know – expert advice from a trusted experienced real estate agent is priceless, now more than ever.
Here’s why.
A real estate agent does a lot more than you may realize to create the best search and get you to the closing table successfully.
Your agent is the person who will guide you through every step when buying a home and look out for your best interests along the way. They smooth out a complex process, most times putting out fires before they land in front of you to take away the bulk of the stress of what’s likely your largest purchase ever. And that’s exactly what you want and more importantly, deserve.
This is at least a part of the reason why a recent survey from Bright MLS found an overwhelming majority of people agree an agent is a key part of the homebuying process.
91% of respondents agree, “it would be very stressful to navigate the home buying process without a real estate agent or broker.”
87% of respondents believe “A real estate agent or broker is an essential, trust advisor for a home buyer.”
Let’s dive into a few top ways that real estate agents or brokers add value to the process.
1. Deliver Industry Experience
The right agent – the professional – will coach you through everything from start to finish. With professional training and expertise, agents know the ins and outs of the buying process and know about homes not on the market through the relationships built with other industry professionals. In today’s complex market, the way real estate transactions are executed is constantly changing, so having the best advice on your side is essential.
2. Provide Expert Local Knowledge
In a world that’s powered by data, a great agent can clarify what it all means, separate fact from fiction, and help you understand how current market trends apply to your unique search. Just because something is on the internet as information does not mean it is factual or applicable in a specific situation. From how quickly homes are selling to the latest listing you don’t want to miss, they can explain what’s happening in your specific local market and come up with a specific plan of action tailored to your needs so you can make a confident decision.
3. Explain Pricing and Market Value
Agents help you understand the latest pricing trends in your area. What’s a home valued at in your market? What should you think about when you’re making an offer? Is this a house that might have issues you can’t see on the surface? No one wants to overpay, so having an expert who really gets true market value for individual neighborhoods is priceless. An offer that’s both fair and competitive in today’s housing market is essential, and a local expert knows how to help you hit the mark. In addition, through agent relationship building, a good skilled buyer agent should be able to extract intel as to what’s important to the seller with the transaction to help enhance your offer.
4. Review Contracts and Fine Print
In a fast-moving and heavily regulated process, agents help you make sense of the necessary disclosures and documents, so you know exactly what you’re signing. Having a professional that’s trained to explain the details could make or break your transaction, and is certainly something you don’t want to try to figure out on your own.
5. Bring Negotiation Expertise
From offer to counteroffer and inspection to closing, there are a lot of stakeholders involved in a real estate transaction. Having someone on your side who knows you, has your best interest in mind and knows the process inside and out makes a world of difference. An agent will advocate for you as they work with each party. It’s a big deal, and you need a partner at every turn to land the best possible outcome. Sometimes a negotiation done the wrong way and without experience can end a deal.
When it’s your time to make a real estate purchase…
Reach out to my team to help assist you to the closing table. Real estate agents are specialists, educators, and negotiators. We adjust to market changes and keep you informed. And keep in mind, every time you make a big decision in your life, especially a financial one, you need an expert on your side.
Expert advice from a trusted professional is priceless.