You might feel the urge to pick the first real estate agent who appeals to or approaches you, but that’s something to avoid. As with any professional, there are degrees of professionalism, dedication, and experience. The “wow factor” will simply wear off. Meet with prospective buyer’s agents in their offices. A good buyer’s agent will want to know whether you’re pre-approved for a loan processed by a loan officer, what kind, and the terms of the loan you’re getting. As a veteran, you should definitely inquire if the agent you are considering working with is familiar with or has worked with veterans who will be using their VA loan benefits to buy a home. The agent should spend adequate time to discover what you’re looking for in a house. They should listen as much as talk and ask questions. Watch to see if the agent makes notes. If the agent doesn’t broach the topic, ask for an explanation of his understanding of agency relationships and obligations to you. The law requires agents to explain whether they’ll be working for the buyer or the seller whenever they have substantive contact with a customer or prospective client. If the agent doesn’t offer you a buyer’s agency agreement, that agent is representing the seller, not you. If the agent can’t explain agency concepts to you, then move to the next agent. Be sure that the agent will be showing you all listings or properties on the market that meet your requirements, and not only listings that are handled in-house. "Buyer’s agents have the legal duty to put the buyer’s needs ahead of their own". Even when an agent will be paid more for selling an in-house listing, they must inform you about other available, suitable listings and take you to see viable prospects.
A good buyer’s agent will provide a home-buying education. The
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