Frequently Asked Buyer Questions
What will it cost me to use a Realtor? A buyer’s agent will be paid out of the seller’s proceeds, so there are generally no out-of-pocket costs to the buyer.
Can I see any property—even if it’s with another company?
Yes! Most properties are listed on the Multiple List Service (MLS) and are accessible to any agent. “For Sale By Owner” properties are usually not on the MLS, but showings can be arranged. If you have an agent who is not showing you all the properties you want to see—get another agent.
What if I find a property on my own?
Actually, I encourage your full participation. If you work with me, I’ll set you up to get listings emailed to you directly from the MLS as soon as they come on the market and depend on you to choose the ones that interest you. I encourage you to drive by any properties that look promising and let me know which one’s you’d like to see.
What about open houses?
Attending open houses can be helpful and informative...just let the agent conducting the event know if you’re being represented by a Realtor. Most open house agents are representing the seller already, so if you don’t have a buyer’s agent, you would have to agree to not be represented and the listing agent would get double the commission if you worked with him/her.
Where do I start?
Narrow the field by knowing what’s most important to you. How many bedrooms do you need? How many bathrooms? Do you need a garage, finished basement, fireplace, fenced yard? If you’re too broad in your search, there will be too many properties to see...if you’re too narrow, there won’t be anything. Think about what’s most important.
What about a lender?
I can provide you with a couple of lenders my buyer clients have used and raved about. It’s vital that you choose a lender who will not only give you a good interest rate, but not overcharge you at settlement with extra fees. My recommended lenders are all reliable, honest, experienced, and will get the job done. Do NOT use an internet lender. I can almost guarantee you will not go to settlement...at least not at the terms you thought you'd get.
What else is a Realtor good for?
(No, "absolutely nothing" does not go here!) Helping you find the right house is only the tip of the iceberg. Many details need to be negotiated, a proper legal contract needs to be written, inspections need to be scheduled, deadlines need to be met, and service providers need to be scheduled. Believe me, it’s a full-time job!
If you have any other questions about buying a home or would like me to be your agent, please contact me. I want your home buying experience to be as easy and stress-free as possible and will do everything I can to make sure you find the home that is right for you.