Buying a home is as stressful as it is exciting. Your home may be one of the largest investments you’ll ever make. It’s important to work with a real estate agent when buying a home.
Work with a Real Estate Agent When Buying a Home for Representation
A real estate agent serves as a professional representative for you as the buyer. Choose a local, experienced agent who knows the area well. Your agent will work hard for you to negotiate a home for the right amount of money, in your desired time frame, and with the least amount of stress. A realtor is legally bound to put the client’s interests first.
Up-to-Date Inventory
Some buyers think they can find a home on their own just by searching online. When you work with a real estate agent, you get an advantage over other buyers because you’ll find out about homes for sale before they are listed online. You’ll get the most up-to-date information via your agent.
Professional Advice During Showings
Your real estate agent will offer you professional advice during showings, pointing out things that you might not have considered. Sometimes agents can spot defects or safety hazards that you might not notice because they tour houses every day. Of course, all real estate agents will recommend that you get a professional home inspection after you sign a contract to purchase a home.
Comparative Market Analysis
When you find the home that you want to purchase, your real estate agent can prepare a comparative market analysis for you. Your agent will compare your home to similar homes that have sold to make sure you are not paying too much for it. This is a very important reason to work with a real estate agent when buying a home.
Work with a Real Estate Agent During Negotiations
Your real estate agent will have experience and is trained in real estate contract negotiations. Your agent will work with you on negotiating the closing date, price, repairs, and contingencies.
Inspection Advice
Your real estate agent will attend the home inspection with you and the licensed home inspector. Your agent will review the written inspection report and give you advice on what to ask the seller to repair or replace. Sometimes you can get monetary credit for any defects or safety hazards found that the seller is unwilling to repair.
Work with a Real Estate Agent Through Closing
Your real estate agent will work with you and all parties involved in the transaction through closing. He or she will work with the escrow company, title company, attorney, lender, seller’s agent, and help schedule closing. They will also attend the final walkthrough with you and attend the closing.
Professional Inspection Network provides home inspection services to Southern California. Contact us if you are buying a home.