While many homeowners turn to a real estate agent when selling their property, not very many home buyers turn to a buyer’s agent when purchasing real estate. It’s very surprising that buyers try to “go it alone” when making a purchase that will affect their finances and their lifestyle for years to come. The average person spends around 1/3 of their income on their home, so any mistakes made when buying a home can add up to huge losses. A good buyer’s agent is a professional with the insight into the market that every buyer needs. A qualified agent offers:
1) Full Access to the MLS
Only realtors can fully access a powerful tool known as The Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which lists approximately 99% of homes for sale within a given market. The MLS is a comprehensive list of all homes that have been listed by realtors, and a buyer’s agent has access to this resource. An experienced buyer’s agent can use the MLS to find homes that meet your specific parameters.
2) Big Savings of Time
It can take months or even longer to research neighborhoods, building plans, architectural details, and the real estate market. A good buyer’s agent can not only do all the research for you – he or she can also help you translate your lifestyle needs into a home purchase. Simply tell a buyer’s agent what you are looking for and he or she will do all the work in finding you a list of homes that match what you are looking for. A buyer’s agent has helped many buyers in your position and with his or her help, you can spend your time looking at homes that meet your wants and needs.
3) Representation
Real estate agents hired by home sellers enter into legally binding agreements that require them to act in the best interest of the seller at all times. A buyer’s agent, on the other hand, will use their expertise to act in your best interests. Your agent can coach you through every step of the buying process. If the seller has professional help, shouldn’t you?
4) Negotiating Power
A Buyer’s Agent will run a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to establish the Fair Market Value (FMV) on a property. This not only helps to ensure that you will not end paying more than a home is worth, but it also means that a buyer’s agent can professionally negotiate price on your behalf.
5) Experience
The average homebuyer will purchase just 3-5 homes in their lifetime. A good buyer’s agent will help in buying that many homes per month. An agent simply has the experience most buyers do not.
Jamie Mixon
Top Louisiana Real Estate Agent
Keller Williams
The Mixon Team
1522 W. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, LA
Phone: 985-277-1063
Fax: 985-727-7001
