BuyerReal Estate August 21, 2024

The True Value of a Buyer’s Agent

How expertise is priceless.

With the recent interest rate cuts and the increase in inventory hitting the market, Buyers are dusting off their sandy summer sandals and getting ready for the Fall and Winter real estate markets. With the abundance of information available to the general public with websites like Zillow and House Sigma, it can be really tempting as a consumer to believe you can take on the home-buying process without the use of your own buyer’s agent.

Just like any professional, good real estate agents are highly skilled and knowledgeable. Skipping this step could cause you some major headaches, a good case of FOMO, and most importantly thousands of dollars! Here are just a few of the things to keep in mind when you’re ready to start your house hunt!

Expertise and Market Knowledge

Buyer Agents have extensive knowledge of the real estate market, including current trends, property values, and neighbourhood insights. This expertise helps Buyers make informed decisions and find properties that meet their needs and budget.

Negotiation Skills

A Buyer Agent can negotiate effectively on behalf of the Buyer, aiming to get the best possible price and terms. Our experience in handling negotiations can result in significant savings and favourable conditions. Remember, the Listing Agent works FOR THE SELLER.

You will not get a better “deal” by going directly to the Listing Agent. Often times, the Seller is offering to pay a co-operating commission to the Buyer’s Agent, so there is nothing for you to gain as a Buyer by not having your own representation. If you wind up in a situation where the Seller is not paying a Buyer agent commission, a good Buyer Agent will help you take that into consideration when deciding on an offer price to reflect covering your own agent’s cost.

Additional Access to Listings

Buyer Agents have access to a wide range of property listings, including those that may not be publicly available. This provides Buyers with more options and a better chance of finding the perfect home. In many cases, Zillow and House Sigma are not always accurate and they do not have access to certain aspects of where a property may stand ex: conditions, escape clauses etc. You may miss out if you are relying on third party sites.

Handling Paperwork & Legalities

The home buying process involves a lot of paperwork and legal documentation. A Buyer Agent manages these details, ensuring everything is completed accurately and on time, reducing the risk of errors and delays. Did I mention we carry a ton of liability insurance?! The last thing you need after purchasing a home is to get stuck in a legal battle over inaccurate paperwork that leaves you at a loss.

Personalized Support & Guidance

Buyer Agents offer personalized support throughout the home buying process, from the initial search to closing the deal. We provide valuable advice, answer questions, and help navigate any challenges that arise, making the experience less stressful and more efficient.

Our team is highly skilled in both listing and purchasing properties. Contact us today so we can start to plan your next move and make sure that you have the right agent in your corner whose only motivation is your happiness and success in your real estate purchase!

Rebecca Plouffe – Broker, Managing Partner

@rebeccaplouffehomes