Purchasing or selling a home can be the largest dollar transaction you ever create, yet many people aren’t very careful about who represents them - and thus set themselves up for potential problems. Purchasing or selling a home is usually a life-changing experience, so why take chances?
Increase the likelihood for success by doing your homework .. .. .. learn about the process, take your time. Your diligence through this preparation will be WELL worth your while.
As a buyer, you need and deserve your own “Buyer’s Agent” because the seller automatically already has their agent, who listed their home for sale, and by law who represents their best interests.
Buyers should NEVER buy directly through the listing agent!
Always remember: you are the “customer” and you are in charge.
Be cautious, ask questions and be choosy - you will be so glad you were!
So, ARE all agents really alike?
- Not true… there are agents, and then there are Realtors, who opt for extra annual education and adherence to a strict Code of Ethics, protecting clients and other agents alike. Ask: agent or Realtor? .. .. then, listen for their explanation.
- Some agents only provide the bare minimum service to buyers & sellers. Is that what you are paying for? Though money doesn’t change hands from buyers to agents directly, agent commissions are built into the listing price of homes. Do you really want the bare minimum of service available to you?
- You deserve thoughtful and full representation - and frankly, you’re paying for it, so .. .. ..
- How do you know the difference between minimum and getting full service? Ask: exactly what services will you provide to me; what should I expect from you? - before determining who will represent you. This applies to Buyers as well as Sellers. ALSO ask if you can terminate your Agreement with this person should you become dissatisfied (this should always apply, and if the agent hesitates - watch out).
- When representing buyers, the buyer and agent make a written agreement to work together, protecting them both. The customer (becomes a “client”) holds the agent accountable, and in return, the clients are loyal to the agent - IF the agent is working hard for them as their advocate and advisor. They are assured of that through the agent’s performance - and their regular, predictable communication throughout the process.
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September, 2018
© Copyright Duval Acker, Realtor
