Christopher Danesi at RE/MAX Accord

News > What is a Buyer's Agent and why should you want one?

Real estate transactions ideally should involve two agents: one who is looking out for the best interests of the home buyer (the buyer's agent)  and another whose primary concern is the home seller (the listing agent). These agents negotiate on behalf of their clients to find the right price point and transaction terms, making sure their client's needs are met.

When you call the realtor whose name and number are printed on the “For Sale” sign of a property or walk into an open house, it’s the listing agent you are talking to. That listing agent has already been working with their client, the seller, for quite some time before you entered the picture. The listing agent has been counseling the seller about how to prep their home for the market, has already reached an agreement with the seller as to list price, and knows what the seller would ideally like to receive for their home. At this point, the listing agent’s commitment is to the seller.

Sure, that agent could represent you too, and when this happens, it’s called dual agency. But dual agency can come with some subtle disadvantages for the buyer.  For example, a dual agent cannot counsel you as to the best price to offer. The dual agent has an incentive to keep you interested in his/her listing rather than presenting any better or lower priced options.

No matter how educated about real estate you might be, having a buyer’s agent to ask the right questions is the ideal situation. Beyond helping you negotiate the best price, a buyer’s agent also will be an invaluable resource to you in a complex transaction where lenders, inspectors, title companies and contractors are all involved

If you’re looking for a buyer’s agent to be on your side in buying your next condo or townhome, contact us. We can represent you as a buyer's agent for all the East Bay properties listed on this website.

 

Though not guaranteed, information and statistics in this article have been acquired from sources believed to be reliable.

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Logo for Fair Housing ActThe Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on color, race, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability.

Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed. The information being provided is for consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. This information, including square footage, while not guaranteed, has been acquired from sources believed to be reliable.

Last Updated: 2024-03-28