Hiring a buyer's agent can make the process of buying a home faster, easier and less expensive.
When a house is up for sale, there will usually be a seller's or listing agent who is responsible for protecting the interests of the seller. As the buyer, you can also recruit the help of a real estate professional to make sure that your needs are met.
Purchasing a home can be stressful and time-consuming. Plus, one small mistake during the application or closing process can result in financial problems later on. So when you're ready to start shopping for houses, turn to a buyer's agent instead of trying to handle everything by yourself.
Here are five benefits you can expect from hiring a buyer's agent:
1. They come at no cost
Many first-time homebuyers think they are saving money by not outsourcing to a buyers agency. In reality, the opposite is true.
Rather than charging by the hour, buyer's agents get paid a commission from the seller when their clients close a deal on a house. This means that you, the buyer, won't have to pay for any of the services provided by your buyer's agent.
2. They understand the local real estate market
In order to find a home that satisfies your needs and is within your budget, you first have to know what's out there. Buyer's agents, by nature of the profession, have a good knowledge of real estate markets and individual houses, which differ from neighborhood to neighborhood.
Hiring a buyer's agent with experience in the local market will allow you to be as thorough as possible when shopping for houses. Also, when you find a property that you like, your buyer's agent will point out any issues that may have otherwise gone unnoticed, like leaks, mold, pest infestations, etc. They can also connect you with professional inspectors to make sure nothing is wrong with the home before you close.
3. They will negotiate for you
How can you tell when a house is overpriced? Buyers agents will do market research to find out how competitive the price of a home is in a certain area. Then, they'll negotiate for a lower price on your behalf.
Bargaining with sellers can be difficult on your own, especially with little knowledge of the real estate industry. To get the best deal possible, let a professional handle the negotiations.
4. They will help you choose the best financing option
In conjunction with knowing the ins and outs of real estate, buyers agents have a firm grasp of the mortgage industry.
Depending on your financial circumstances, they can connect you with a lender and help you choose the right kind of home loan, whether it's a 30-year fixed or an adjustable rate mortgage.
For more useful knowledge around buying a home, contact The Federal Savings Bank today!
5. They will guide you through the loan application process
Applying for a home loan can be a long and complicated process. Not only do buyer's agents make it easier, but they also increase the likelihood of buyers getting accepted.
In other words, since they've been through the process so many times before, they know what a good application looks like. Your buyer's agent can help you fill out necessary paperwork effectively, with an idea of what details are most important in the eyes of the lending institution.
This information is intended for educational purposes only. Products and interest rates subject to change without notice. Loan products are subject to credit approval and include terms and conditions, fees and other costs. Terms and conditions may apply. Property insurance is required on all loans secured by property. VA loan products are subject to VA eligibility requirements. Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) interest rates and monthly payment are subject to adjustment. Upon submission of a full application, a mortgage banker will review and provide you with the terms, conditions, disclosures, and additional details on the interest rates that apply to you individual situation.
