Question: Why do I need a Buyer's Agent?
Answer: As your Buyer's Agent we are your advocate and we work in YOUR best interest. The person who is listing the home is representing the seller's best interest. The person at an Open House is also representing the seller's best interest. The person at the Model Home for the new construction homes is representing the builder's best interest. We, on the other hand, are working for you so that you have your own personal representation in a situation where the other party also has their own representation.
Take a look at how Agency (representation) works here in Idaho.
Why do I need a Buyer's Agent?
Whether you are a first time home buyer or you have done it many times before, it is essential that you have an experienced agent on your side helping you and representing your best interests throughout the process. The seller's agents represent the seller's interests; they are contractually obligated to work in the best interest and to get the best price for the seller. A buyer's agent represents you and will work in your best interest, help you find your dream home and negotiate to get you the best home for the best terms possible. We have system that helps you be in control (with our help) of finding homes you would like to look at in person. We are available to show you the homes, answer questions and gather additional information as you have interest. We will also help you structure your deal to save money and guide you through the paperwork and the entire home buying process including all of the time deadlines and contingency periods.
Wouldn’t it be best to get several agents all looking for a house for me? I would be more likely to find what I want and more quickly, right?
While this may seem like a good idea on the surface, the answer is no. As agents we all have access to the same listed MLS properties. The difference from one agent to another is their skill, availability, experience and work ethic. Working with multiple agents only gives you several people doing what is minimally necessary to maintain a relationship with you. If an agent has no guarantee you are committed to them, they will prioritize and the majority of their time and energy will go to the clients who are. In fact, if you are only a customer of the agent(s) (See Idaho Agency Here) the agent is contractually obligated to work for their clients above and beyond their customers and so you may be put at the bottom of the priority list when it comes to letting you know about new homes on the market, showing them to you and more. In a hot market this may actually cause you to miss out on properties rather than give you an advantage. You will benefit most by signing a Buyer’s Representation Agreement with one agent. This ensures you have a trusted agent committed to finding you, their client, your perfect home and representing your best interests in the process!
If I’m interested in a home for sale by owner, do I still need a Buyer’s Agent?
Yes. Having an agent represent your interests is just as important in purchasing an unlisted property as in a more typical transaction. Many For Sale By Owner sellers welcome Buyer's agents and are willing to pay their commissions in order to make the complex transaction easier. Often FSBO sellers know that most buyers are working with an agent and even expect a buyer to have their own representation. But even if they don't, we have navigated this situation with great success and have helped many of our buyers purchase for sale by owner properties over the years.
What about new homes, new subdivisions and/or a custom build?
Yes, we represent buyers in new construction as well. We have a good relationship with builders in the Treasure Valley and have sold many new construction spec and custom built homes over the years representing the buyers. Remember, the model home or site salesperson represents the builder, so a Buyer should have representation of their own.
Generally, we will be there to show you homes you are interested in, including new construction homes. Some builders will allow you to view the properties without your agent but you will want to let them know you are working with an agent and you just need to let them know who that is. We would prefer to be there with you though, even if the homes are open and available to you. This helps us discuss with you your likes and dislikes, pros and cons and allows us to further move forward in the process with you. So don't hesitate to ask us to show you those homes or join you if you plan to go look at them. This goes the same for vacant land as well if you are looking for a lot to build on. It's part of our job to be there for you and with you throughout the process.
If you would like to meet to discuss how our team can represent you in a real estate transaction in the Treasure Valley area please feel free to contact us.
John Boles 208-830-6185 (call/text)
johnboles@boiserealtystore.com
Serving all of Ada & Canyon Counties and
portions of Gem, Owyhee & East Boise Counties
Jon Gosche Real Estate, LLC
Boise, Idaho Real Estate
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