Why Do I Need a Real Estate Agent?

Lots of people don't trust real estate agents and don't really understand what an agent brings to the table that they can't do for themselves. It's an understandable reaction. This is a weird profession to be part of. There's very little middle of the road. Agents are either despised or loved. They earn an A or an F on their closing report card -- there is rarely a C on performance in this business.

Quite frankly, some buyers and sellers could manage very well on their own. I won't go as far as to say that an A-rated agent doesn't bring added value to the transaction, but for some consumers, an agent is not necessary.

Buyer's Agents Work for the Buyer and Not the Seller.  And the Buyer does not pay the commission anyway.  If a buyer is not represented by an agent, the listing agent gets double commissions while still representing the best interest of the seller!

Done correctly, a buyer's agent's job is to put the buyer's interests ahead of the agent's, to disclose all material facts, keep the buyer's information confidential, provide the buyer with sufficient information to purchase a home and expertly negotiate on the buyer's behalf.

Here are some of the services you can expect to get from a buyer's agent that you might not be able to obtain on your own. Apart from hearing about listings before homes are available to the public, Buyer's agents can:

•Provide comparable sales from the tax rolls or MLS.

•Pull property profiles reflecting sales history, property data, demographics etc.

•Obtain a copy of the home's historical documents (disclosures).

•Prepare a strong offer that presents the buyer in the best light based on market demands.

•Review of documents for loopholes.

•Provide a buffer between you and the seller's agent.

If you feel competent that you can handle a sale or purchase on your own, you probably can.  But you may always wonder if you paid too much or accepted too low of a price.