Is a Real Estate Agent Necessary to Buy a Home?

Buying a home is a big event, especially if it is your first home.  There will probably be many things you don't know, because you simply haven't been through the home buying process before.  One of the most common questions of first-time homebuyers is whether they need to hire a buyer's agent.

There is nothing that requires anyone to hire a buyer's agent.  You can find homes for sale on your own and work directly with the seller's agent.  The problem with that is that the seller's agent has the seller's best interests in mind.  He will try to get the highest possible price for the seller, and is in fact contractually bound to do so.  He is also obligated not to share any confidential information about his client with you.

Working with a buyer's agent gives you the advantage of having a knowledgeable and experienced agent looking out for your best interests.  Your agent will help you find property that meets your needs.  He will then assist you in negotiations to help you get it at the lowest possible price.

You can work with an agent without signing a buyer's agency contract.  In fact, it's a good idea to do so for a while until you're sure that you want that agent to represent you.  You need time to determine whether the agent will listen to your needs, and whether the two of you will be able to get along....

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