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Real Estate 101: Choosing Your Buyer’s Agent

If you are in the market to purchase a home, it is a good idea to hire a buyer’s agent to work on your behalf. With a buyer’s agent by your side, you can rest assured you will get the best deal on the home of your dreams. After all, the role of the buyer’s agent is to work with your best interest in mind rather than working on the behalf of the seller. At the same time, it is important for you to use care when selecting the buyer’s agent who will represent you during the home purchase. This way, you can be certain to get the result you are after.

Narrowing down your options for a buyer’s agent can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but asking yourself these four simple questions while screening available agents will ensure the best results.

Do You Feel Comfortable with the Agent?

The simple truth is that you will be working closely with your buyer’s agent as you search for the perfect home and as you negotiate a deal with the seller. Therefore, it is essential for you to feel comfortable with the agent you select. Not only do you want to feel as if your buyer’s agent is truly operating in your best interest, but communication is key to finding your ideal property as quickly as possible. So, be sure to work with a buyer’s agent who you feel comfortable talking with and who you believe is truly listening to you when you discuss your needs and wants.

Is the Agent Familiar with the Market I am Interested in?

Finding a buyer’s agent who is familiar with the area in which you are interested is also essential. The more familiar the agent is with your market of interest, the better he or she will be able to locate properties on your behalf. Furthermore, the more experience the agent has with your market, the better he or she will be able to judge the value of the property and advice you on the price you should offer and expect to pay.

Does the Agent have Reputable References?

Any time you work with someone who provides a service, it is important to check on his or her references. Before hiring a buyer’s agent, be sure to check references and to use other resources to learn more about the agent you are considering hiring. Performing a Google local search or checking for testimonials on yelp are two great resources to explore.

Does the Agent’s Process Make Sense to You?

Finally, you should ask the buyer’s agent to run down the process that he or she uses for finding a home and for helping to negotiate the price on your behalf. If the process doesn’t make sense to you and if the agent is not willing to provide clarification that makes sense to you, you should move onto a different agent.

About the Author:

Eric Bramlett is the broker & co-owner of One Source Realty, a boutique Austin real estate company.  Eric & his team specialize in a number of Austin areas, including downtown Austin condos & Steiner Ranch real estate.

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