The Buyer's Agent
Responsibilities and Representation

As your real estate agent we represent YOU. We promote YOUR best interest and we are required to keep all confidential information confidential. Initially, we will ask you to sign a Buyers or Dual Agency Agreement. Simply stated, a Buyer's Agency Agreement discloses that you want us to represent your best interests in purchasing a property. A Dual Agency Agreement states we may represent you if you want to purchase a property that also happens to be listed with our firm.

We will more thoroughly discuss any questions or concerns you have regarding these forms. We will also provide you with a copy of the brochure Working with Real Estate Agents. There is NO COST to you to have a buyer's agent. In most instances, commission fees are paid by the seller.

It can also be extremely helpful to find a lender and become pre-qualified for a home loan. (We have a few lenders listed in our Useful Links section.) Being pre-qualified lets us know exactly what is affordable for you, your needed down payment and closing costs. It also serves to strengthen any offer you make on a home.

First and foremost, as your buyer's agent, understanding your needs is our primary goal. We will determine your most important criteria (location, square footage, school district, etc.) and base the selection of properties on your requirements. As you view these properties we will begin to narrow your search to those homes that interest you the most. Once you have decided on a property, we will evaluate sales of comparable homes to determine an appropriate offer or purchase price.

At this time we will write an Offer to Purchase to be presented to the seller's agent with an earnest money deposit and begin negotiation. On your behalf we will work to get you the best price and terms. We will not hesitate to suggest walking away from a deal if the seller is unreasonable or if the seller refuses to do any necessary repairs after the home inspection is completed.

Once an offer is accepted we will facilitate the selection of a closing attorney, arrange for housing and termite inspections and discuss home warranty options. It is not uncommon for potential problems to occasionally arise and we will competently settle these matters so you will have a smooth and stress free closing.

Our final responsibility is to keep in touch with you. Hopefully, you have become a friend and customer for life!