May 4, 2008

Why You Should Use a Buyer's Specialist in a Real Estate Transaction

While many homeowners turn to a real estate agent when selling their property, not very many home buyers turn to a buyers agent when purchasing real estate. Its very surprising that buyers try to go it alone when making a purchase that will affect their finances and their lifestyle for years to come. The average person spends around 1/3 of their income on their home, so any mistakes made when buying a home can add up to huge losses. A good buyers agent is a professional with the insight into the market that every buyer needs. A qualified agent offers:

1) Full Access to the MLS
Only realtors can fully access a powerful tool known as The Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which lists approximately 99% of homes for sale within a given market. The MLS is a comprehensive list of all homes that have been listed by realtors, and a buyers agent has access to this resource. An experienced buyers agent can use the MLS to find homes that meet your specific parameters.

2) Big Savings of Time
It can take months or even longer to research neighborhoods, building plans, architectural details, and the real estate market. A good buyers agent can not only do all the research for you he or she can also help you translate your lifestyle needs into a home purchase. Simply tell a buyers agent what you are looking for and he or she will do all the work in finding you a list of homes that match what you are looking for. A buyers agent has helped many buyers in your position and with his or her help, you can spend your time looking at homes that meet your wants and needs.

3) Representation
Real estate agents hired by home sellers enter into legally binding agreements that require them to act in the best interest of the seller at all times. A buyers agent, on the other hand, will use their expertise to act in your best interests. Your agent can coach you through every step of the buying process. If the seller has professional help, shouldnt you?

4) Negotiating Power
A Buyers Agent will run a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to establish the Fair Market Value (FMV) on a property. This not only helps to ensure that you will not end paying more than a home is worth, but it also means that a buyers agent can professionally negotiate price on your behalf.

5) Experience
The average homebuyer will purchase just 3-5 homes in their lifetime. A good buyers agent will help in buying that many homes per month. An agent simply has the experience most buyers do not.

6) Industry Contacts
A good buyers agent has access to a quality closing team that may consist of an inspector, listing agent, loan officer, appraiser, insurance agent, general contractors, and others. By working with this team, your buyers agent can help ensure that your home purchase is as hassle-free and as positive as possible.

7) Peace of Mind
A buyers agent acts as a second, professional opinion on one of the largest decisions of your life. By working with a professional, you can rest assured that you are making the right decisions for you. Working with an expert, you know that you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that can affect home buyers.

Buying a home can be exciting and fun. However, no matter what sort of real estate transaction you are interested in making, a buyers agent is a must. A real estate professional who specializes in working with buyers can help you avoid costly mistakes and can help you feel more comfortable as you make your decisions.

Eric Bramlett currently manages his Central Austin real estate Guide, his Tulsa Realtor website, & his Austin Apartments Guide.

Article Author: Eric_Bramlett

Article Source: http://www.many-articles.com