Thinking about Buying a Home? Here’s Why You Need a Real Estate Agent on Your Side

Buying a home is one of the biggest and most exciting decisions you’ll ever make. But it can also feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where a great real estate agent comes in! They are your personal guide through the entire process, making sure you find the right home and get the best deal.

What Does a Real Estate Agent Do for You?

Think of a real estate agent as your expert helper. They do a lot more than just open doors for you. A good agent:

• Knows the local market. They know all about the homes for sale in your area, including new listings that aren’t public yet.
• Helps you find the perfect home. They listen to what you want—like a big yard, a new kitchen, or a certain neighborhood—and find homes that match your wish list.
• Is a master at paperwork. Buying a home involves a lot of forms and contracts. Your agent makes sure everything is filled out correctly so you don’t miss anything important.
• Negotiates for you. When it’s time to make an offer on a home, your agent works to get you the best price and terms. They are on your team!

The Buyer-Broker Agreement: A Simple Promise

Before your agent can start showing you homes, you’ll need to sign a Buyer-Broker Agreement. This is a document that officially says your agent works for you. It’s a way to make things clear for both of you.

This agreement is important because it:

• Explains the services your agent will give you.
• Protects your interests and makes sure your agent is on your side.
• Talks about how the agent will get paid.

You will talk with your agent about what you will pay them for their help. This can be a flat fee, a percentage of the home’s price, or an hourly rate. This is a very important part of the agreement, and everything is negotiable.

How Your Agent Gets Paid (Without You Reaching for Your Wallet)

You might be wondering, “Do I have to pay my agent out of my own money?” Not always!

One of the best things about hiring a buyer’s agent is that you can often ask the home seller to pay your agent’s fee.

During the purchase process, when your agent helps you write an offer on a home, they can add a line to the contract that asks the seller to cover their compensation. For example, if you offer to buy a home for $400,000, the offer can also ask the seller to pay your agent’s commission. The seller can say yes or no, but it’s a common practice.

This is a powerful way for you to have a professional expert on your side without having to pay for them out of your own pocket. Your real estate agent will guide you on how to make this request and will be your advocate throughout the entire process.

Choosing to hire a real estate agent is a smart first step toward finding your dream home. They will save you time, stress, and money, and help you get the best deal possible.