Ask Jean Posts Tagged as Buying

The vast majority of home buyers begin their search on-line. Websites like Zillow and Trulia attract 88% of active buyers. Despite that statistic, some people still attempt to sell without the help of a professional realtor. They pay for a newspaper advertisement. MAYBE someone from the other 12% will see it. They tack a sign to a tree in their yard and hope for the best.

Seriously? Realtors have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which shares information with over 30 additional websites. Now THAT'S visibility. Which strategy makes more sense to you? I thought so.

So, here you are, bopping about the Internet looking at houses. And then...there it is!  The perfect house! You pick up the phone and call the listing agent.  STOP RIGHT THERE! Rewind. You may have made a very costly mistake.

Did you know that the listing agent has an obligation to work for the SELLER'S best interests? Sure, they can fill out the paperwork for you. However, who is on YOUR side? You need a buyer's agent.  Here's why:

• No fee to you
• The seller pays the commission, NOT the buyer
• You need someone to navigate the process for you
• The buyer's agent will help you with the inspection process, negotiations, etc.
• They will be sure you stay within the contractual timeframes

Once you fall in love with a house, your emotions are on your sleeve. Trust a reputable buyer's agent to negotiate in your behalf. They have an objective view of the property.  You don't want to end up purchasing a money pit. Let your agent lead the way.

Ever find yourself viewing homes on the Internet?  Whatever you do, DO NOT CALL DIRECTLY.  Here's why:

• The listing agent is representing the SELLER, and not you.
• If you call directly, you are relinquishing YOUR right to have representation.
• In most cases, hiring a buyer's agent costs you nothing.
• The seller is paying the commission fee.
• The listing agent splits that commission with the co-broke.
• If an agent "double ends" the transaction, that agent must be neutral to both parties.

If you even THINK you want to see a property, hire a reputable realtor to make that appointment.  A house is a major purchase, and you need to enlist a team of professionals to guide you.  Cover your assets!

What is the housing market doing today?  That's a loaded question, for sure!  It seems as though you need a crystal ball to see into next month or even next week.  For the most part, sales have increased about 8% over last year.  That's good news.  However, prices have declined by as much as 17% within that same timeframe. 

What does this mean for a buyer? 

• The rates are the lowest we've seen in years
• If you are renting, you may be able to own for less than what you're paying for rent
• Inventory is abundant - lots of properties to choose from
• Tax incentives make it even MORE attractive to purchase a home
• Buyer's are in the driver's seat, for the most part

Do your homework, and speak with a mortgage broker.  Understand how much you can comfortably afford to spend.  Work with a Realtor.  Trying to negotiate a sale of this magnitude without professional help is not wise.  In most cases, it's the seller who pays the commission.  Working with a buyer's agent allows you to gain professional guidance for free.