3 Things Your Realtor Should Tell You

When buying a house, a real estate agent can be a great asset to you. As the buyer you want to hire a real estate agent because you don't have to pay them directly. The agent is paid a commission that they split with the seller's real estate agent. Be picky about which real estate agent you work with to help you find your home. You want to find a real estate agent that will be upfront with you about the homes are you are considering.

I'm the buyer's agent.

You need to hire your own real estate agent. Even though you won't be directly paying them for the home you purchase. If you contact the seller's agent, or the person listing the home, they are obligated to first look out for the interests of the seller. That means that they may keep some information from you, or specifically tell the seller your negotiating price range.

You are looking for an agent that is a buyer's agent. This means that the agent does not represent the seller. The agent is working specifically for you. Speak specifically with any agent that you are considering hiring to make sure that they have your interests at heart.

This house has been re-listed.

A real estate agent knows the area; they know which houses are on the market, and for how long. Some homeowners will have a house listed for several months and then pull it from the market and re-list it so that it appears like a new listing.

Your real estate agent can let you know which houses have been trying to sell for several months. This can help you decide how much you are going to offer to buy the house for. Ask your real estate agent if the seller seems to be holding out for a high price or if they might be getting desperate and willing to accept a low-ball offer.

This house runs through owners.

You may find a really unique home with a small circular staircase from the main living room to the basement. The house may have a lovely creek in the backyard and you think that it would be perfect for you. However, if your real estate agent tells you that this house is regularly being sold then you should reconsider.

Realtors have experience that can help you decide if a house is really right for you. There may be nothing wrong with a house that has gone through four owners in ten years, but it is something that you should consider. Is that circular staircase going to be a hazard, or an insurance headache? Does that creek in the backyard flood into the yard or the house? Often times there are reasons why homes are regularly sold.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that you want a real estate agent that is working for you. Agents with years of experience know the area and they know the houses. Make sure that your agent is willing to let you take advantage of that knowledge and experience. Remember, the agent that helps you buy a home also wants to be the agent that helps you sell the home when you are ready to upgrade. You should only work with someone that you can trust. For more information, contact a professional like Realty in Alabama.