HOME BUYERS ADVICE - HIRE YOUR OWN PROFESSIONAL AGENT


Buyers who are represented by an ABR (Accredited Buyers Representative) are more likely to have a successful transaction.  Getting your home purchase closed is quite complex in today's market.  There are many more hurdles buyers face, such as stricter financing, foreclosures, short sales, and for-sale-by-owners.


Whether you are in an area with lots of homes for sale and falling prices (Buyer's Market) or where homes are selling quickly before you can even write up an offer (Seller's Market), you'll be much better off having your ABR navigate the market with you.


Your ABR undertands the current market.  She knows the neighborhoods and will help you obtain the right house at the best price and terms.


Although you can search for homes online, do you know about the homes that are coming on the market?  Your ABR has the means to communicate your needs to make sure she can provide you with details of upcoming homes for sale before they become active listings.  Many homes are bought and sold this way, without ever going active or having a sign in the yard.


4 Tips on How to Work With Your Own Agent

1)  Show commitment in order to get great service.  Get prequalified with a lender, so you and your ABR know exactly how much home you can afford.


2)  Work with only one agent.  It is customary to sign a Buyer's representation agreement.


3)  Stay in contact and be loyal.  If you vist open houses or new construction display homes, let the hosting salespeople you know that you are already represented.


4)  Along the home buying process, don't hide important information from your agent or she will be blindsided by key issues that could impact your closing negatively.


Once you and your ABR find your ideal home, the work really begins.  You're agent will navigate negotiations, loan approval, seller's disclosures, inspections, repairs, and so much more.