Real Estate Agents Are Not Just Door Openers - What A Buyer's Agent Really Does

Real Estate Agents Are Not Just Door Openers- What A Buyer's Agent Really Does

 

 

There are a lot of home buyers out there that think real estate agents merely drive people around, unlock doors and let people inside homes.  Some even view us as glorified taxi drivers.  However, the truth is that during the course of a transaction, we end up "wearing many hats" as the process is quite complicated.  With that in mind, we are writing today to educate home buyers of the many benefits of using a buyer's agent.

Here is just a small list of things a buyer's agent does for their clients:

1.   Educate a buyer regarding the home buying process, including explaining fair housing laws and agency relationships.

2.   Preview homes in advance and also find "off market" opportunities including"pocket listings" - saving valuable time.

3.   Discuss advantages and disadvantages of different types of housing and specific features of homes that may affect resale.

4.   Assist with financing.

5.   Provide information on schools, neighborhoods and places of interest.

6.   Help with market stats.

7.   Negotiate offers on buyer's behalf to get them the best price and terms.

8.   Explain the home inspection process, provide names of inspectors, and help buyers navigate through the often difficult stages of this step in the home buying process.

9.   Ensure contract conditions and deadlines are met.

10.  REPRESENT YOUR BEST INTERESTS AT ALL TIMES - BECAUSE THE LISTING AGENT WILL NOT AND CANNOT REPRESENT YOU!

Obviously, though not on the list, we will certainly schedule and show you homes.  Before we show you homes though, we always recommend that you meet with us so we can get to know what you are looking for in a home, neighborhood, etc.  The more we know about you and your needs, the easier it will be for us to find you that perfect home.

If you are a home buyer that is just calling listing agents of homes you like on line, do yourself a favor and commit to one agent to represent you.  Otherwise, you are missing out.

Remember, it does not cost you money to hire a buyer's agent as the seller pays all commission.  Also, if you decide to work directly with the listing agent, you will not get representation as that agent will either represent the seller, or if they practice dual agency, neither. 

Hopefully, you now have a good understanding of the many things we offer our buyers and you will view us as more than your personal "cab".

Here are other articles of interest pertaining to home buying:

Buying A Home In Cleveland - The Complete Guide 

Buying A Home - How To Choose A Neighborhood 

Agency in Ohio - Why Using A Buyer's Agent Is Important 

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About The Authors:

This information is provided compliments of Amy and Dan Schuman, The Schuman Team Keller Williams Realty. The Schumans are residents of Solon OH and have worked with numerous professional athletes, business owners, and executives who are relocating to Cleveland.

If you are looking to buy or sell Cleveland OH real estate, including the surrounding suburbs, please contact the Schuman Team at 216-346-3235. 

SEE ALL CLEVELAND OH AREA HOMES FOR SALE BY CLICKING BELOW:

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Real Estate Agents Are Not Just Door Openers - What A Buyer's Agent Really Does is the property of The Schuman Team and may not be duplicated or used without their written consent. ©July2010    

Disclaimer: The Schuman Team practices real estate in Ohio. Since many states have different laws and protocol regarding a real estate transaction, we recommend consulting a qualified local legal professional prior to entering into any written agreement. This blog contains observations and opinions related to our first hand experience working with buyers and sellers in Ohio, but should not be construed as legal advice.  Accuracy is not guaranteed.