There was a day when the REALTOR® always worked for the seller, whether our client was selling a home or buying a home. The listing broker was always who we were working for. Times have changed. REALTORS® now represent both the buyers and the sellers, which means the buyer is in better hands.
We have a legal and ethical responsibility to be honest and fair with all parties involved in a real estate transaction. This includes the buyer, the seller, lenders, inspectors, etc. All material facts about a property are required by law to be disclosed.
REALTORS® work hard for the buyer. When you and I hit the road to view properties, I invest my time and energy to help you find a home at no cost to you, because I get paid by the selling broker when you close escrow on your home.
A seller’s agent (listing agent) is obligated to obtain the highest possible price for their seller in a real estate transaction. It is unlikely that the selling agent will provide you with information that will help you get the best deal.
As your agent, I can do things for you that you may not know about to help you get the best value. Providing you with critical market information about the neighborhood is something only a REALTOR® can do. With this information, we can determine if the asking price on a property you’re interested in is realistic. Without representation, you may find yourself purchasing a home that is overpriced.
Purchasing a home is an investment and a business decision. It just makes sense to hire a REALTOR® to represent you throughout the process. Making sure you choose the right REALTOR® will determine your overall experience. Sometimes we have that “friend of a friend” who “knows real estate.” Be sure that they are a professional and that they are in fact a REALTOR® before you put your family’s future in their hands. Many friendships have been lost through real estate transactions gone bad.
Interested in a new home? Make sure you follow my advice:
- Never walk into an open house without me.
- Never visit a new home development without me, and don’t sign any guest registries while visiting.
- Never buy a home without being represented by a REALTOR®
Remember, we work hard for you, and we get paid by the selling broker. If you find yourself unrepresented at an open house or a new development that you fall in love with, make sure you make it explicitly clear to the agent holding the home open or the developer that you are already represented by Jon Griffith of Realty Executives. If my name isn’t on that purchase contract, I’ll be working hard for free, and you’re my bread and butter.