Once you've decided to buy a home here in Queen Creek, it's natural to want to see them all. If you happen to see an "Open House" sign or a builder's models, it's natural to stop and go in. But be careful.
The first step is to IMMEDIATELY tell the agent that yes, you do have a buyer's agent. In fact, it won't hurt to give the seller's agent your agent's card, just to reinforce the statement.
Next, if you fall in love and want the house, take the information and call your own agent immediately. Inform the seller's agent that he or she can expect an offer and that it will be coming through your agent.
Why not purchase from the agent holding the open house or at the sales office?
For two reasons. First, you probably have a contract with your buyer's agent. Second, the agent holding the open house is working for the seller. If you purchase through him or her, you'll have limited representation. You WON'T BE SAVING THE SELLER MONEY SO THAT YOU CAN GET A BETTER DEAL. The seller is obligated to pay the full commission, regardless if there are two agents involved, or one. You will just be helping the Listing Agent make more money.
That means no one will be ONLY on your side, negotiating the best price and terms....And no one will help you include the proper contingencies in your offer. You'll simply be a buyer.
If the house happens to be new construction in one of Queen Creek's new home subdivisions, you won't have anyone negotiating for upgrades on carpet or appliances – or making sure the builder does thier job and takes care of YOU. The agent at the sales office works for the BUILDER. Trust me, I know! I used to be one! I worked in new homes sales and new homes sales management for nearly 6 years. I know what questions to ask and what to look for. The builder's agent is paid by the builder to sell their homes. They are COMMISSION based sales people.
As soon as you walk through the front door of the builder's sales office without your agent, you may give up your right for representation. When the builder releases their pricing, they automatically BUILD IN a buyer broker's commission into the base price. They EXPECT to have to pay a buyer's agent. They LOVE when you show up alone :-) They CANNOT offer you an incentive to NOT have representation....they could get in BIG trouble for that.
As your Queen Creek agent, I'll be happy to accompany you to open houses - and new home sales offices. I'll be glad to give you a supply of cards to hand out, just in case you run across your new Queen Creek home when I'm not with you.
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