agrees to reduce the price to offset agent compensation, for many, a do-it-yourself home purchase might be pricier than a real estate agent’s compensation in the long run. On most home sales, there is a listing agent (the agent engaged by the seller to sell the property) and a selling agent (the agent who introduces the eventual buyer into the transaction). The selling agent is sometimes called the “buyer’s agent” because he or she is often working on a certain buyer’s behalf, and it’s easier than explaining that the selling agent is not the listing agent but really the buyer’s agent. There are some real estate agents that market themselves as “buyer’s agents,” “exclusive buyer’s agents,” or “buyer’s representatives.” These real estate agents have chosen to make a business of finding homes for prospective buyers and handling the negotiations and transactions attendant to the purchase. These agents want to accentuate the reasons a buyer shouldn’t go directly to the listing agent when they purchase real estate. A buyer who goes directly to the listing agent and allows that agent to “manage” both sides of the transaction is dealing with an agent who has conflicting responsibilities. Their job is to get a good price for the seller, and they might not zealously represent the interests of the buyer. Those who market themselves as buyer’s agents indicate they’re only working for the buyer in a real estate transaction. A buyer's agent is therefore a real estate professional dedicated solely to representing your interests as the buyer throughout the home-buying process. Once you agree to work with a buyer’s agent, you will sign a written buyer agreement outlining key services and compensation. Then the buyer’s agent will work on your behalf, helping you find properties that meet your criteria, scheduling viewings, negotiating offers, and handling all the necessary paperwork and legalities involved in purchasing a
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