Why a Buyers Agent

Of course agents try to be fair and nice to buyers that they are showing property to. But, agents are bound by Real Estate License Laws, the Law of Agency and their Code of Ethics.

That is why it is important when you are seeking to get the best value that you work with a buyer's agent. A buyers agent will always negotiate in the best interest of the buyer.

Just as sellers establish a contractual relationship by signing a listing agreement with their agent, you can establish a contractual relationship with an agent by signing a buyer's agency agreement. This agreement makes the agent legally accountable to you and not to the seller.

The buyers agent has access to all of the information that any other agent has through MLS. A buyers agent can also show homes that are listed "by owner" or through a builder.

It is important to understand that almost all agents work on a commission. Agents want to know that their client will be loyal and not buy a property without them after they have spent hours driving the buyer around in their car and doing research for them.

If a property is listed in MLS then the commission for the buyer's agent is paid by the seller at closing just as it would be in any transaction. If the property is a "for sale by owner" the commission can by paid by either the seller or the buyer. Usually it can be negotiated in the price. For this reason using a buyer's agent does not really cost you anything more than using any agent.

It is important to get to know your agent and feel comfortable with them. It may be in your best interest to agree to sign your buyer's agent agreement after spending some time together.

A buyer's agent can do many things for you. They certainly can advise you of all of the sales that would be comparable to the property you are interested in. They can advise you of any apparent defects in the property. They can research any developments around or near the property that would have an affect on the property value. They can let you know what the seller paid for the property, how long they have been trying to sell the property and give advice as to what you might offer. They negotiate on your behalf and can do all that they can to see that you get the best value possible.

It is the buyers agent's responsibility to arrange financing for you with a foremost home lender and help you get the very best possible loan program available to you. The agent should consult with to determine the total cash outlay, monthly payment, home style and amenities that fit your needs.

A buyer's agent should provide you with a complete list of all homes, listed by all companies that meet your targeted specifications. She should update you on any new listings opportunities.

The agent will prepare your offer and recommend professional services such as home inspections services and termite inspection services, and home warranty companies if desired.

If you are working with a buyer's agent it is important to remember not to call listing agents on properties. It is better to let your own agent be involved in all conversations. It is important that when you go into open houses you have your buyer's agents card with you and inform agents that you are working with a buyer's agent. It is important not to ask questions about the seller's motivation or what price the seller might take.

I can work as a buyer's agent. I am a licensed realtor with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Inc.

I would like to be a buyer's agent for you and I can be reached at 727 744 7596. That is my cell phone. I work both resale homes and new homes. It costs just the same to buy with a buyers agent and you will get good service from an agent who knows the neighborhood well. I specialize in Tampa Bay Golf and Country Club.