Brad's Real Estate Blog

Why you need a Buyer's agent before starting the home buying process.

I am asked this question frequently and there are many articles written about the role of a buyers agent I wanted to write about what I do personally when I represent a buyer in their home finding process and purchase.

I believe there is a real need to explain the role of buyers agency to a prospective home buyer, especially if this is their first purchase.   Below is the timeline during most typical home purchase transactions and what I as a buyers agent do for my buyer clients.   I believe if a potential home buyer understands the benefits buyer agency gives to them then the answer to the question "Do I need a buyers agent?" will be a resounding "Yes, of course!"

First, we set up a meeting (face to face if possible, via phone & email if you are relocating and out of state).   We will discuss your current living arrangements: Are you leasing/renting?  If so, when is your lease up?  Are you able to go month to month on your lease if need be?  (In Arizona homes are available for you to move in to the day of closing, other homes the sellers will need and ask for occupancy after closing.  We will also discuss what happens during that occupancy and how you are compensated for your time without living in it.)

At this meeting we will also discuss general finances, your "comfort" payment versus your pre-approval amount and typical cash needed to start the process. (Good faith deposit money, money required for closing, home inspection fees, etc.)  If you need references to a mortgage lender I will provide you with several so that you may interview them personally and feel confident in the mortgage product that best suits your needs and unique financial picture.

We'll also discuss how property taxes vary with each home and how the total property tax bill will change with new ownership, how it affects your mortgage payment and the ways in which it could possible affect which homes you would be comfortable viewing.

My favorite part of the "get to know you" meeting is having you draw up your wish list, want list and must have list.  This is a wonderful way for all of us to narrow down the homes we view and it is also fun to watch that list change after viewing some homes and the different price ranges. 

When you are finally comfortable we will begin the viewing process.  I will make all the necessary appointments for us to view the homes together, with emphasis put on YOUR schedule making it almost unnecessary for you to have to take time off work to view any homes.

When you have finally found the home that shouts out "This is it!" is when I begin the art of negotiation.  In todays market, especially in Cochise county, the home prices are so varied that a buyer can feel overwhelmed with "What offer would be insulting?" or "Am I offering too much?" By the time I have finished analyzing the area, the recent home sales (sold prices, not asking price!)  the condition of the home and all the variables you will be well educated and able to confidently make an offer on the home.  I will also be "armed" with as much information possible to present to the sellers on your behalf the wisdom and reasoning behind the offer that you have written.

As you can see, this process can be quite lengthy.  Along with all of the above as your buyers agent you will be thoroughly informed as to what to expect during the processing part of your mortgage, the closing process, when to obtain your homeowners insurance, waiting out the appraisal and underwriting, and all that takes place from the time your offer is accepted until the home if finally and officially yours!

Throughout the entire home buying process I am with you as your partner.   As your buyers agent I will be there at your home inspection, follow up with your mortgage lender regularly, answer all of your questions to the best of my ability and above all else, represent YOU throughout the transaction and afterwards.  Yes, I said afterwards.   You do not stop being my concern when the transaction is finished and you are in your new home.  In fact, I love to be invited to the house warming parties!

If you are a considering purchasing a home in Sierra Vista or the Cochise County area please feel free to give me a call and I would be happy to talk to you about the role of a buyers agent and how important I feel we are to protect your interests.