What is a buyers’ agent?
When most people think about a Real Estate Agent, they think of someone who sells houses. This is completely true for “Listing Agents” or “Seller’s Agents”, but a Real Estate Agent can also specialise in other aspects of the Real Estate Industry.
A “Buyers’ Agent” or “Buyers’ Advocate”, is a Real Estate Professional who instead of working for the sellers, is solely there to help the buyer.
Why would you need a buyers’ agent?
It’s becoming more and more common for a buyer to hire the services of a Buyers’ Agent to help them in their search for a dream home because their expertise in the field and insider information can save the buyer tens of thousands of dollars; hours and hours of precious time, and in many cases, find them unlisted properties and great value for money properties that just aren’t available or known about by the every day person looking for a house.
What services do they offer?
Search
After an initial consultation to find out exactly what is on your wish list, your Buyers’ Agent will set out to find you the perfect home. They have numerous contacts in the industry and will often be able to find some gems that either aren’t on the market yet or haven’t and likely won’t be listed for sale. This means that you have first dibs on a whole secret world of amazing homes. Or if it is advertised, their reputation will help you get in ahead of the crowd.
Negotiate
Obviously a Buyers’ Agent wants you to get the best possible deal on the house. This may mean negotiating a better price, or it could be securing more favourable conditions within the initial offer or contract. Or as mentioned before it could already be a great deal which needs to be locked down fast….which is where having a Buyer’s Agent can work wonders. While you’re busy at work or dealing with family commitments, your Buyers’ agent is out there working for you, contacting agents, teeing up inspection times, doing drive-bys of the neighbourhood and comparing the house to others in the market to ensure the asking price is fair.
Buying a house is considered one of the most stressful things you can encounter in your adult life, so one of the most valuable reasons to hire a Buyers Agent is to take away the stress, overwhelm and emotional breakdowns which are inevitable if you’re doing this alone! Having that level headed calming influence will mean you won’t be making any rash decisions or feel pressured in any way by the seller, and you’ll come out with a fair priced property, ideally with good growth potential and minimal nasty surprises due to your Buyers’ Agent being thorough throughout the inspection and negotiation process.
Settlement
Once you have your offer accepted the fun begins! Your Buyers’ Agent will guide and support you through the entire process keeping things stress-free and uncomplicated. They will make sure you understand the process without feeling overwhelmed or intimated. A Buyer’s Agent has many contacts in the industry so can help you secure a loan if needed and organise a conveyancer for you.
You’re a busy person, and your time is valuable, and a good Buyers’ Agent understands this. They will be there every step of the way to help you navigate the paperwork, remind you of important deadlines, and organise inspections on your behalf. They can even be there for the final walk through if needed.
In short, a buyers’ agent Is there to get you the best deal possible with the least amount of stress, leaving you to focus on making amazing memories in your new forever home.
