CHAPTER 3 Get an Agent on Your Side
Now that you’ve seen the advantages of owning your own home vs. renting, and you understand the steps you need to take to get to your dream of homeownership, it’s time to appreciate how real estate agents help buyers, and help you gain an advantage when home shopping and buying.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
The fact is that many buyers question whether using a real estate is really necessary or beneficial, and wonder if the expense (i.e., the commission) is worth it. Yes, it’s true that the do-it-yourself option can technically save you the commission fee, but for the majority of home buyers, who don’t truly understand the ins and outs of real estate, going the DIY route can actually be more expensive in the long run, not to mention making the entire home search and home-buying experience longer, more stressful, and more complicated. A professional real estate agent gives you the ultimate advantage as a buyer. He or she can make all the difference in helping you find the right home, negotiate a fantastic deal that essentially negates the commission fee, and navigate the complicated parts of the home-buying process. Buyers have little risk when working side- by-side with an experienced agent. I recommend hiring an agent — but the right agent. Someone inexperienced, someone who doesn’t seem like they’re on your side but are in it for themselves, or someone who has more experience working with sellers will not meet your needs, and could cost you in the end. The agent’s commission is a cost, yes,
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