Do I Need an Agent?

Do I need an agent? Actually, no. You don't need an agent. For the vast majority of buyers, using an agent greatly simplifies the home-buying process. A good agent like Tami Winbury will be familiar with local real estate rules, regulations, and laws. A good agent will fight hard to get the buyer the best deal. A good agent will have solid connections to lenders, inspectors, and other service providers that a buyer might need in order to close a deal. But some buyers can and do handle a home purchase without an agent. If you do decide to go this route, we strongly recommend that you find a good real estate attorney to help you deal with contracts and paperwork (some states require an attorney, whether you have an agent or not). How do I pay an agent? How much do I pay? You don't. Technically. Of course, the seller has no money at all until the buyer buys the home and hands over the cash. Many people argue that this means the buyer is the one who really pays the agents, since it's the buyer's money. When a seller sells their home, they pay a commission to their own agent (the listing agent), and they also pay a commission to the buyer's agent. Usually, the buyer's agent and the listing agent get the same amount. Either way, buyers who decide to work without an agent are usually motivated by a desire to save money. The listing agent will still get their cut, but the buyer may be able to negotiate with the seller, and save the part of the commission that would normally go to pay the buyer's agent. What if I don't like my agent? Can I change agents? Before you sign any paperwork locking you into one agent (known as a buyer's agency agreement you should make sure that you're comfortable with your choice of agent. It can be difficult to break-up with an agent once you've signed on. The document a prospective buyers signs once they decide to work with a buyer's agent. Each MLS has a standard buyer's agency form, but the brokerage the agent works for may also provide their own agreement listing the conditions of the relationship between the buyer's agent, his brokerage, and the prospective buyer. Agent Roles What I Offer as Your Realtor: Outstanding personal Service eCommerce Designated- Innovative marketing ideas Expert knowledge of the area Skillful negotiating ability Excellent communication skills Short Sale, Bank Owned, Foreclosure Designated During the home-buying process, real estate agents can play one of several different roles. Here are the ones you're most likely to see, as well as important advice about avoiding something called dual agency . Buyer's (Selling) Agent When you shop for a home, you usually work with an agent who will give you advice, help you tour, help you make an offer to the seller, and negotiate on your behalf. This is commonly referred to as the buyer's agent, though the technical term within the real estate industry is the selling agent. (We know... this is confusing. You might see the term selling agent on some paperwork, but most of the time, most people just say buyer's agent.) What does the buyer's agent do? The buyer's agent is the individual that represents buyers when they purchase a home. Though the buyer's agent usually performs most of the tasks listed below, the first duty of a buyer's agent is to always act in the best interest of the buyer. Negotiates with seller on price and repairs Helps you find inspectors, lenders & other service providers. Helps you deal with closing and contingencies Call Tami Winbury Keller Williams with questions and to help you Buy your home. 805-798-3412 http://www.VenturaCountyHomesForSale.net http://www.Keller_Williams_Homes.com