What is a Buyers Agent and how can they help you?
Thinking of buying a property but have no idea where to start? You're not alone. Buying property is an art-form. There are many moving parts that's why it's a good idea to choose your team of professionals wisely.
As experts in the field of property acquisition, Buyer's Agents specialise in finding, examining and assessing properties, and then representing you during the negotiations.
Buyers Agents operate independently of real estate agents, and their sole focus is on serving the needs of buyers rather than sellers. Their experience in property purchasing ensures that you will be able to find a top-quality property at a competitive price.
A buyer’s agent, will work solely for the you - the buyer.
Check out my Interview with Emma from Maynard Property who answers some of the top questions about what a Buyers Agent does including her take on the current property market
Reasons why you should consider using a Buyers Agent
You feel intimated or don’t like dealing with Real Estate Agents
You don’t like dealing with Real Estate Agents or you’re intimidated by them. I get it, I’ve dealt with some real doozies and whilst there are some great real estate agents out there, there’s also some that are so pushy you feel as though they are not listening to you at all!
At the end of the day Real Estate Agents are working solely for the property seller to maximise the amount they receive when the property sells.
A Buyer’s Agent is working entirely for you, the Buyer. They are independent of all Real Estate Agents and solely focussed on getting you, the Buyer the best property to suit your needs at a great price.
You don’t know the area well or are relocating
You are new to an area or relocating and need to find someone who can listen to your lifestyle needs to determine the area which will best suit you.
They will take into consideration your recreational interests, your commute to work, the school that will suit your children and of course “the vibe of the place” to ensure that you feel as though you fit in as soon as you move in.
You’re not confident with negotiation
You aren’t sure how to negotiate a great deal. Purchasing property can be very emotional, especially if it is going to be a home that you are purchasing as your first, or if it’s a property that you intend to raise your children.
These emotions can sometimes hinder the negotiation process leading you to pay more for the property than you should.
Buyer’s agents can advise on what the price range for that property should be by using our analytical tools to ensure that you don’t overpay.
They will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you have a stress-free property purchase.
You don’t want to make mistakes
You are uncertain about choosing the correct property. A buyer's agent strengths are choosing properties that meet your property purchasing strategy. They understand what you are wanting to achieve with your purchase and will tailor a property to meet the needs of the strategy.
They guide you through every step of the way ensuring that you have the reassurance and guidance to make a great property purchase.
Their ability to know the current market along with tapping into their network will land your perfect property. They know the market and this will help to ensure that you won't be overpaying.
You keep missing out on your ideal property
You feel as though you are missing out on properties. There’s a reason for that, you are!
Real estate agents will often give buyer’s agents the heads up about properties that are off-market or pre-market. This allows us to get you through properties that haven’t even been advertised yet.
You don’t have the time
You are time poor and have too many things going on in your life to be searching the internet and identifying properties that may suit and arranging with the inspection times with real estate.
What it you could find a great property and still join the kids on their Saturday morning sports, catch up with family members or friends of a weekend, spend time on your business ventures whilst not traipsing around looking at open homes and properties that are already "under contract".
Don't waste precious time tracking down your perfect home, engage the services of a Buyer's Agent who will conduct a targeted campaign with the sole purpose of sourcing your perfect property.
Questions to ask your Buyers Agent before engaging them
- What areas do you service / are you an expert in?
- How long have you been working as a Buyers Agent?
- How many clients are you currently working with?
- How many properties have you bought personally?
- How do I know I will be getting the best price?
- What happens if you can't find me a suitable property?
- How long does it take and do you work with me until the right property is found?
- What if my circumstances change during the process?
- What are your fees?
Summary
Purchasing your first (or any) property is going to be one of the biggest financial decisions you ever make. It's important to get it right, so take the time to ensure you have the best possible chances of success by engaging the right professionals on your team.
Buying property is a team effort, there are many moving parts. Your team member professionals must live and breathe property themselves to ensure you have people who walk to the talk.
Don't be afraid to ask them about their own personal experience with property (not just their professional experience).
In addition to a Buyers Agent, you should have the following members on your property team:
- Money Coach
- Mortgage Broker
- Conveyancer
- Building and Pest Inspector
- Property Manager (if you are going to rent it out)
Ensure your experience is a smooth one by taking the time to research and engaging the right team members who have first hand experience in the art of buying property.
For more information or details on who we recommend to have on your team, please contact me here
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Disclaimer - this content does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon as such. Cashflow Mastery is for educational purposes only. It is not to be taken as Financial, Taxation, or Legal advice. Full terms are found on our website.