Finding and Using a Buyer's Agent
The relationship between a homebuyer and his or her buyer's
agent must be based on trust, mutual goals and understanding. The homebuyer entrusts
the buyer's agent to always keep his or her interests first and foremost.
Some things to look for in an agent:
An understanding of your needs
A willingness to work with you until your needs are fulfilled
Professionalism
A familiarity with the neighborhoods you like
Experience with the price range in which you have an interest
Professional designations: for example, GRI, Graduate of the REALTORS® Institute
or CRS, Certified Residential Specialist
Strong references from previous buyers
Some questions to ask a prospective buyer's agent:
How long have you been in real estate?
Are you a full-time buyer's agent?
Are you familiar with the area in which we want to look?
How many home sales did you participate in last year?
What is the average sold price of the homes you sold last year?
Do you normally work with sellers or buyers?
How many buyers are you presently working with? How many sellers?
Where do you feel your strengths lie?
What three buyers that you have worked with can you give me as references?
Will you handle the appraisal, inspection and insurance?
Will you be present at closing?
Where to find an agent
Warning!
Be aware that if you search for homes first and contact the agent who has a particular
property listed, that agent will represent the seller -- not you.
Search newspaper and homes magazine ads for buyer's agents who advertise that they
have experience in buyer representation. Ask friends, relatives and co-workers about
experiences -- both good and bad --that they've had with specific buyer's agents. Was
the buyer's agent easy to work with? Did they feel that the agent was responsive to
their needs? Would they use this buyer's agent again?
CHRIS A. STROLENY
Licensed Mortgage Broker
Chris@ChrisStroleny.com
Phone: 800 982-3132
Fax: 866 339-1094
