3 Unexpected Things Your Agent Can Do For You When Buying A Home
Posted on: 29 May 2019
When buying a home, you know that you can expect your real estate agent to accompany you to showings and then negotiate with the seller's agent when you find a home you want to make an offer on. However, that's not all that a real estate agent can do for you as a buyer. Here are three somewhat less-familiar services many buyer's agents offer that you might want to take advantage of as you navigate the process of buying a home:
Make feature recommendations
You may envision going into your real estate agent's office, giving them a list of things you are looking for in a home, and then waiting while they research homes that meet your specifications. Things can certainly go this route if you want, but if you're not sure exactly what you're looking for in a home, there's no reason to force yourself to come up with a list. A real estate agent can actually do that for you. Tell them about your life -- what you do for work, the hobbies you enjoy, your plans for a family, and so forth -- and they will tell you what others in similar situations tend to look for in homes. Working together, you can come up with an accurate list of features you need and want in a home.
Attend open houses for you
You see a home you think you might like, but you're busy during the open house. Do you just pass on the home and hope another one pops up that you like just as much? There's no need. Your agent can actually attend the open house for you and gather information. They can send you additional photos, let you know how much interest there seems to be, and give you an idea of how much you should offer if you are going to make an offer.
Ask for changes in the contract
You set up a contract with the seller, but then the inspection comes back and you're not so sure the amount you offered is really fair anymore. You don't have to just "eat" your error. Tell your agent how you feel, and they can work with your lawyer to request a change in the contract. You can lower your offer based on the results of the inspection so you do not end up overpaying.
Real estate agents have complex and involved jobs. Take full advantage of the home buyer services they offer, and find a home you really enjoy.
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