With a world of information available anywhere we go, anyone can feel like an expert. However, most of the time, simply having access to the information doesn’t actually make a person an expert. When you are going through a complicated financial process, like buying a new home, mistakes can be costly. You need an actual expert to guide you through the process, and when it’s time to buy a new home, that means using an experienced local real estate agent.

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Benefits to Using a Real Estate Agent

Years ago, when listings weren’t available to everyone on the internet, you would find out about homes listed for sale from your real estate agent. With all the home search sites available now, it may seem like the benefits of using a real estate agent when you’re buying a home aren’t that important. You can search for exactly what you want online from the comfort of your own home. However, finding houses to see is only part of what a buyer’s agent brings to the table. Your agent can get early information about houses that will be coming on the market, and can get you in to see a home sooner than you could do on your own. Once you have an agent working for you, every part of the process will go more smoothly.

A buyer’s agent is typically free to home buyers. A buyer’s agent will earn their commission when they sell you a home by splitting the commission with the seller’s agent. This alone makes using an agent to buy a home a smart decision. It makes sense to utilize an experienced and knowledgeable expert in your corner at no cost to you.

The only time it may cost you to buy a home through an agent is if you are looking at one that is listed “for sale by owner”, as these owners will not cover the agent’s commission. However, the benefits of using a real estate agent are still numerous. A real estate agent will know every detail to look for, especially things that first-time buyers may not think of.

They know the signs of pest damage, aging components, and potential water damage. They are able to look past the superficial and study the parts of the home that will matter, whereas buyers are often focused on what they can see easily. Your agent will quickly be able to tell if a home is overpriced, if there are contingencies or inspections you need to put in your offer, and will negotiate on your behalf to get you the best possible price for your new home.

A Buyer’s Agent Understands

Buying a new home is more than just arranging a showing and deciding on a house you like. There are many pieces you need to understand, starting with the market. Real estate markets differ greatly from town to town and even from neighborhood to neighborhood within a town. A real estate agent has made it their business to understand the intricacies of the local market. They will know how to advise you with regards to your offer, contingencies, and the long term outlook. Once they’ve helped you through your initial offer and negotiation, they can help you with the many contracts you’ll sign, help direct you for financing, and put you in touch with the right appraisers, inspectors, real estate lawyers, and all the other professionals you may need throughout the process.

The benefits of using a buyer’s agent are many and the drawbacks are few – if any. You will have a professional in your corner, guiding you through a very complex process, at no cost to you. If you are in the market for a new home, a buyer’s agent is the smartest decision you can make. Contact Amberwood Real Estate to learn more about how we can help you buy a great home for you and your family.