Boston Real Estate for Sale
Boston real estate buyers agent 2021
What is a Buyer’s Agent, and Why Should You Work with One?
How important is a buyer’s agent, and why do you need one to help with your home buying process? A designated buyer’s agent actually offers some distinct advantages that can help you make smart decisions in the search for your next property. Finding a committed realtor before you start looking for a property can save you time and money and streamline the process to work for you.
Buyer’s agent – yes or no? We say yes! Even though this text focuses on Boston condos for sale, it can apply to any Boston area and neighborhood. A buyer’s agent is a savvy professional who can take the stress out of your buying experience. If you also choose your buyer’s agent carefully, you are most likely to come out ahead in the home hunt.
Why is having your own buyer’s agent important?
It might seem like the easiest and most cost-effective solution to look for homes on your own, but beginning your search without a designated agent could cost you time and money.
When a property is sold, the commission typically goes to the agents who helped broker the deal. It’s important to know that whichever agent shows you the property you decide to buy will typically be the agent who receives the commission fee, even if they don’t help you write up an offer. This means that before you start the process, you want to be working with an agent that you know is obligated to look out for your best interests.
Real estate buyer’s agent works explicitly in your best interests
While it’s convenient to schedule showings online with whatever agent is available, this doesn’t ensure that you have a committed realtor working by your side. A buyer’s agent will do more than show you the properties you want to see. They will collect potential listings, track price reductions, assess market conditions in the area and know enough about the type of property you’re looking for to enable you to make a good offer.
Finding a designated buyer’s agent to help you through the entire home-buying process ensures that you will have an agent who is contractually obligated to represent your best interests and who is an expert on prices and trends in the area.
It costs you nothing as a Boston condo buyer
You don’t pay anything to the buyer’s agent. The seller is the one who will pay the commission for your buyer’s agent and their listing agent. So, the services of a buyer’s agent will cost you nothing and work to your advantage.
There is one notable exception related to not having to pay for buyer’s agent’s services. If you are interested in a property that is labeled as “for sale by owner” (FSBO), the owner may refuse to pay for the services of the buyer’s agent.
Boston real estate buyers agent knows the local market inside out
A buyer’s agent are insiders when it comes to the real estate market for buying Boston condos. That is, they should be. When you are choosing your agent, make sure they know the local market. This may sound nit-picky, but you’d be surprised to know how property market differs not only city to city, but area to area. If you want to land the most favorable deal as well as a reasonable price, get a buyer’s agent who is local-savvy.
They are not emotionally invested in the purchase
Love is blind. You may fall in love with a property and fail to notice structural red flags. A buyer’s agent is emotionally detached from the properties, so they’ll keep a clear head and draw your attention to issues you may overlook.
They look in the right place
Even if you have bought homes before, it’s highly unlikely that you have seen as many properties as a buyer’s agent has in a single month. Buying a home is an investment, and even if you are planning redecoration projects once you buy your home, you will want to know the precise condition of the property you are considering to buy. This is where a buyer’s agent can help you – having viewed thousands of homes, they are able to spot potential problems even when they are hardly visible. Some of these are: mold issues, pest problems, decaying roof and leaks.
They have a network among local professionals
Bearing in mind the scope of investment in buying a home, there is a number of professionals whose services you may require. They could be mortgage providers, attorneys, home inspectors, etc. The most professional and competent buyer’s agents can refer you to these reliable contacts if you happen to need them. They also work closely to listing agents so that they can show you Scripps Ranch homes for sale before they get on the market, for example.
They are experienced in real estate contract drafts
The real estate contract is a legally-binding document. It’s always good if a buyer’s agent can review the contract and ensure that it includes contingencies that protect your interests.
They will guide you in the financing options
The Boston condo can be difficult to navigate, especially when you consider financing options. Mortgage choices is another area where a buyer’s agent can be invaluable help. They can help you compare the advantages and drawbacks of different mortgage types, as well as help you choose a reliable local lender. It’s advisable to use a local company which understands the local market.
They have carefully honed negotiating skills
Look at it this way. The sellers whose property you will be considering are more likely than not to have a listing agent on their side. If you get a buyer’s agent, you can level the playfield. Negotiations are not always straightforward, which is something buyer’s agents know all too well. Protect your interest and ensure you are competently represented in negotiations.
Are you looking for Boston condos for sale?
Established in 2000, Ford Realty is a leading downtown Boston real estate agency with an exclusive focus on the local market. Whether you are buying or selling your property in Beacon Hill or anywhere else in Boston, we will happily put our expertise and experience at your service. Call us today.
