When you’re planning to purchase a home, working with an experienced real estate agent will benefit you significantly.
When it comes to buying a home, everyone has their own idea of the perfect process. While some buyers may decide to forgo the help of an experienced Realtor (typically with the idea that they will save some money by not paying an agent’s commission fee), this can often backfire.
Not only does a qualified buyer’s agent have the time, resources, and knowledge needed to guide you through the home search and purchase process, but he or she can save you money in the long run.
While the “do-it-yourself” (DIY) mentality might be trendy, it’s probably better to reserve that approach for a few of your minor home projects, rather than the home purchase experience.
Here are just a few of the responsibilities an experienced buyer’s agent will cover before, during, and after your purchase process…
Preparation & Education
This is one of the most important phases of the homebuying process, because it will set you up for success as a buyer. A good buyer's agent will tell you about the local market and economic outlook. They will also help you with your credit score and mortgage approval documents.
Property Search & Analysis
Most homebuyers consider this the “fun” phase of the home search process, but it can become tricky if you don’t have an expert to guide you along the way. An experienced Realtor will have access to property alerts that you won’t receive if you’re searching on your own. Plus, he or she will have insider knowledge on the resale value, zoning restrictions, and schools/community amenities for a particular property that you might never find out if you’re searching alone.
Financial & Market Guidance
The housing market fluctuates greatly — even from day to day. Your buyer’s agent will have more insight into the complexities of the market, and will provide expert advice on timing your offer strategically. He or she can also explain lender fees, discuss interest rate impact, and help you analyze home value trends.
Offer, Negotiation, & Contract
Unless you have real estate experience yourself, this is one phase of the process that you really don’t want to enter without a buyer’s agent. Your Realtor can handle the negotiation process for you, addressing challenges such as bidding wars or multiple offer situations. If things get “messy,” you’ll be glad you have an experienced agent on your side.
Inspections & Due Diligence
There’s a lot of moving pieces during this phase of the homebuying process. Your agent will help set up inspections (septic, mold, pest, etc.) and interpret the findings. Because they go through these processes regularly, they’ll be familiar with who to contact and what to do. It will take pressure off you!
Closing Process
Working with a knowledgeable loan originator is important, but your Realtor will also understand the basics of the mortgage process. He or she can help clarify closing costs, monitor your loan approval process, and assist with the final walkthrough preparation.
Post-Closing Support
Even after your loan is approved and your closing process is completed, your buyer’s agent can help with: transferring/starting the home’s utilities under your name, interpreting community bylaws, and recommending relocation services or vendors.
Professional Networking & Referrals
Trust us, you’re Realtor is going to know PEOPLE. And those are the people you want to know too, during your homebuying process. Whether you need to connect with a loan officer, appraiser, bank attorneys, or anyone in between, your real estate agent can probably facilitate an introduction.
Regulatory & Legal Guidance
This is another area that you’ll probably need expert guidance in. Whether it’s checking on HOA requirements, verifying title searches, or ensuring that any potential contingencies are met, your Realtor will navigate the legal and regulatory complexities that tend to pop up during the homebuying process.
Investment & Market Analysis
Even if you’re a real estate investor and you’ve made multiple property purchases in the past, a Realtor can be a valuable advisor when it comes to building your portfolio. An experienced agent will understand the flip potential of any given property, and can provide insights on competitive market strategies to help you make financially-savvy decisions.
Special Situations
And, of course, there’s also the potential that something unexpected will pop up during the homebuying process. If you’re flying solo, you might not be able to handle these circumstances alone. For instance, a Realtor will help you navigate required repairs on a property, assist with real estate auctions, address historic property considerations, and much more.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
There are a multitude of ways your buyer’s agent can save you time and money during the homebuying process. This is likely one of the most significant financial decisions of your life — it’s probably not the best time to navigate the process alone!
If you’re looking for a Realtor, first find an experienced loan originator in your area. We can provide recommendations for trustworthy, knowledgeable agents in your community.
