“Were planning to buy our first home and are wondering, do we have to use an agent?”
***ANSWER:
Why wouldnt you?
Some first-time buyers think they have to pay their agent, so they avoid working with one for as long as possible. But the seller pays both agents 99% of the time. And a buyers agent performs so many important roles and vital tasks for you…
1. Personal Shopper —
A good agent matches homes to fit your needs. Who wants to hassle calling ads and For Sale signs and have every agent pump you for personal info while telling you as little as possible. A REALLY good agent working for you may find you a great home not even on the market. (Our “My Home Detective” program has found dozens of our clients homes this way.)
2. Friendly Doorman —
Somebodys got to let you in. Under half the homes for sale are ever held open, so you shouldnt just wait for open houses. And if you call the seller’s agent to show you a home and you like it, they’ll likely end up being your agent anyway.
3. Trusted Advisor —
Buying a home can have many pitfalls. A skilled agent will represent you and advise you on market trends, prices, laws, contracts, inspections & repairs, disclosures, loans & lenders, and more.
4. Bulldog Negotiator —
You also need someone negotiating for you to get you the best price and terms. A sharp agent can save you $1,000’s and/or get you the home you want when you have competing bidders. (Yes, some homes still receive multiple offers!)
5. Event Coordinator —
As you know, real estate is complex. There’s so much to be coordinated and timed correctly. Done wrong and you can lose a home you have in escrow, lose your deposit, &/or lose out by missing a major detail that costs you time, $$$, or other problems.
6. Mood Therapist —
Studies have shown buying a home is one of the most stressful events in your life! You need someone to keep you calm and level-headed as you ride the emotional roller-coaster of buying a home.
Talk to two or three agents and decide who you’re comfortable with and who seems to know what they’re doing. Feel free to call us at (858)457-KENT and we’d be happy to talk with you and find you a home…
Selecting A San Diego Real Estate Agent
