What Buyers Need To Know

In a competitive market, sometimes buyer's think they can do better by going directly to listing agents. I thought I would share a few points with you on the advantages of having a buyer's agent vs. going to a listing agent.

 1. A listing agent has a fiduciary duty to the seller, that duty includes doing everything they can to get the best price for the seller. Although it is typically not illegal for the same Realtor to represent both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction, it may not truly be in the best interest of the buyer.

 2. In addition, trying to go to the sellers agent is not a unique idea. Chances are there are other buyers trying the same approach. If a listing agent is writing an offer for them they may also be writing an offer for other buyers. The agent has no loyalty to the buyer; their loyalty is to the seller (by contract).

 3. Some Buyers think it will save them time by having is a Sellers Realtor represent them, thus giving them an advantage. Most cases, this is not true; the compensation the Seller pays is the same whether there is one or two agents.

 4.Sellers who accept offers in which their agent is also representing the buyer often do so because they believe they will be better able to control the buyer due to the lack of buyer agent representation.

 5. Buyers who have buyer agent representation will have a safeguard interest to ensure that the seller and/or the sellers agent is not taking advantage of them. An agent who has a fiduciary duty to the seller may not be as diligent in protecting the buyer.

 6. Buyers who have buyer agent representation will have a professional who is committed to them and committed to finding the home they desire. The sellers agent is committed to selling that particular home for that particular seller with price and terms that are as favorable to the seller as possible.

 7. Many buyers also do not realize a buyer's agent can show any home that is on the MLS. If it's for sale, your agent can show and represent you.

 8. New Construction homes are a seller only representation. If you are interested in new construction make sure to bring your agent with you when you sign up on the list. If you go without your agent at any time whether via internet or in person, chances are you will be in a duel representation. 

What Are Your 2014 Goals?

Everyone has goals in life. When you think of your goals, the first thing that probably comes to mind - How am I to get there?

Planning is the first step.

So what are your goals?

1) To be in a house as soon as possible
2) To be in a house 3-6 months from now
3) Be in a house before my lease is up
4) Work on my credit first
5) Saving money for a down payment
6) Planning to sell my house this year
7) To be in a house by next year sometime
8) It's a 3+ year plan in the making
9) I am an investor
10) Just bought a home

Whatever the plan is, know that I am flexible and will work with you. Buying or selling a home takes time, planning, and a lot of thought. I would love to hear about your goals. This will help me to make notes as to your home priorities. If you are a browser great, please continue browsing. Keeping up with the market is always a smart idea, but why are you browsing? Is it because you have a goal in mind? Please know I am not just any Realtor, if you have a plan in your head, I will help get you there.
Look forward you hearing about your goals for 2014.

Bring In the New Year By Planning Your 2014 Home Adventure

Greeting Readers,

Sending well wishes to you and yours and that 2013 treated you well.

The New Year brings on new beginnings, please let me know if you have any questions about your real estate needs.

As a full time real estate agent I am always actively looking at property and would be happy to answer questions you may have about the market. Whether it’s to help you plan your next home upgrade, buy your first home, or help you plan to sell your current home, the tools that ZipRealty offers our buyers and sellers can help you take that next step in 2014. I would be happy to meet with you anytime over coffee or tea and just talk about your future home buying or selling plans, just let me know.

If you do not plan to buy or sell in the next year please let me know, and I would be happy to help you in the future.

Look forward to hearing for you,

Happy New Year!

 

Rachael