As with any professional, there are degrees of professionalism, dedication, and experience. The “wow factor” will wear off. Meet with prospective buyers' agents in their offices. A good buyer’s agent will want to know whether you’re preapproved for a loan by a lender, what kind, and the loan terms you’re getting. They should spend adequate time discovering what you’re looking for in a house. They should listen as much as they 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 work for the buyer or the seller whenever they have substantive contact with a customer or prospective client. Ensure that the agent will show you all listings or properties on the market that meet your requirements, including those 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 listing agent will point out all the features of a home; a good buyer’s agent will point to the faults — or advise when they can be overlooked. Competent buyers’ agents help buyers think clearly as the home- buying process unfolds. For example, if a house is a good buy, a buyer’s agent might suggest looking past the dated bathroom and kitchen and looking at the space above the garage that will make the perfect art studio you desire. Likewise, a cute house with all the amenities but with knob-and-tube wiring or a 40-year-old roof might not be worth the asking price. If you decide to buy an addition, the agent should advise you to check the zoning before making an offer. Agree to sign a buyer’s agency agreement after you have met with an agent. Some people sign an agency agreement after attending a show that the agent gives. According to an article by
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