Buying with Kathy O'Brien
Finding your Realtor by "Accident"
When someone decides it is time to
However, when someone decides to buy a home, they usually end up with their Realtor through sheer accident. Why don't homebuyers search for a Realtor the same way that homesellers do?
Instead, homebuyers usually end up with a Realtor as a result of answering an advertisement. The advertisement will give a brief summary of a home available for sale along with the price, but it says nothing at all about the Realtor.
So...
...does it really make a difference? YES!
A Good Real Estate Agent Takes Care
You want an agent who will represent you - take care of you - a real estate agent that will give you care, loyalty and the "right" information and advice - just like your attorney!
It is very important to find the right agent that understands your needs and will protect you when buying your next home!
Listing Agents and Selling Agents-What's the difference?
You see, there are two "sides" to every sale. The listing side (the seller and the agent handling the property) and the selling side(the buyer and the agent representing the buyer). Most deals have an agent representing each side, so there are generally two agents involved. The seller's side is represented by the listing agent. The buyer's side is represented by the selling agent (also known as the buyer's agent).
Agents can deal with both buyers and sellers, but the majority tend to focus their efforts on one or the other. Some even exclusively handle either buyers or sellers.
So what should you do?
We simply recommend that you take as much care to hire a real estate agent you would for any other professional. Ask questions. Ask about eduction, experience, and focus.
After all buying your next house is probably the biggest purchase you've ever made in your life. Does it make more sense to find your agent by accident... or by design?
Buying a New Home Is a Serious Investment
Buying your new home is a serious venture. It can be an absolute pleasure or a massive headache. Your house is not just your home, it is a serious investment in the dwelling, the area and your future.
When buying a home - you're bound to have many questions. For example, "In what area can I find a home that suits my needs?", "How much money will I need to afford the monthly payments?" and "How long will the home buying process take?"
Below are some articles that you might find useful in the home buying process. Please feel free to click on one of the links below to read more or contact Kathy O'Brien.
Buyer Articles
- Advice for First-Time Buyers
- How to Negotiate with Sellers
- Types of Mortgages
- Getting the Best Rates for Your Mortgage
- Surviving Escrows
