I have been selling homes full-time in the Austin area for nearly 20 years now. As a result, I have a breadth of experience in every price range, and I have worked with clients of all kinds. Every home buyer is unique, and so are their specific needs. As such, we try to tailor our services to help our clients to accompish their goals in as smooth a manner as possible. We have a team of agents who serve home buyers and sellers throughout central Texas.
Part of our representation entails recommending other service providers who can help. We have wonderful and solid people to suggest as lenders, inspectors, insurance salespeople, and more.
In a majority of cases, our vendors are also loyal friends. They take good care of the people we send to them, because they want us to send more business.
Sometimes, I see buyers who refuse to take our recommendations, despite the fact that it would truly be in their best interest to do so. I don't think it's a matter of trust. Rather, sometimes it is perceived to be an easier path, or there's a misunderstanding about the numbers involved because of the way things are presented. This is most likely to occur with mortgage lenders.
I can assure you that we want the very best for you, which is why we have developed strong relationships with industry affiliates. I do not receive any financial benefit if you choose to work with my lender or my inspector. I just know that they are good at what they do, and they are trustworthy and have the highest integrity. The same is true of most professional agents.
Obviously, you are not required to use anyone we suggest, but it will probably make your life a lot easier. I have had a handful of clients this year who regretted sticking with a clearly bad lender too long. I have also seen clients get burned by inspectors who are not thorough.
We want to help you avoid preventable mistakes. It is part of our "fiduciary responsibility". This phrase is part of our REALTOR Code of Ethics. It means that we are supposed to place client needs over our own. We take that seriously.
If you are a consumer and you see this post, please know that your agent (hopefully) sells homes on a consistent basis, and he/she wants to help you as much as possible. There are exceptions in our business, of course, but all reputable agents have solid relationships that will benefit you. I recommend strongly considering working with the associates that your agent has in mind for you, particularly when it comes to financing. This doesn't mean you can't shop around, but if the numbers are close, stick with the recommended lender. Beyond the fact that your agent can trust this person, they also have some measure of leverage if there are problems. That probably won't be the case with a big box bank or online lender.
I hope you find this bit of advice helpful.
If you are considering a home purchase or sale in the Austin, Texas area, please feel free to call or text me anytime at 512-796-7653 (cell) or email jcrouchbroker@gmail.com. Our primary website is http://austintexashomes.com.
Thanks!
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