Sarnia Home buyers and home buyers around the world are seeking out the services of a Real Estate Agent in record numbers according to the latest survey. There are many reasons for this including the new buyer agency protection laws, the complicated nature of the real estate transaction, and greater professionalism of Real Estate Agents.
*According to the National Association of Realtors
The new Buyer Agency protection that all Realtors have to adhere to has made the process more transparent and fair on the Buyer. Real estate agents used to only be able to represent the seller in the transaction because that is who pays the commission typically and that is the way it had always been done. Today it is more likely that the consumer wants their own protection and hire there own agent especially since its free to hire an agent.
The real estate transaction is inherently complicated with legal forms, CMA’s, MLS, setting up showings, negotiating, inspections, financing, and many other potential pitfalls like over paying for a house. A real estate agent helps buyers navigate these murky waters and makes their life a LOT less stressful during the home buying process by helping them prioritize their needs or wants and arrange other professionals to make sure there home is not a Lemon. I always reiterate to my buyer clients that doing the paperwork on the house they want to buy is only one thing I do for them with all the other small things being just as valuable as the negotiating and paperwork.
Real Estate agents have been climbing the social status ladder over the last decade due to our continued effort to be professional and continuing education. This is one thing I take very personal as it is my profession and therefore have completed many extra continuing education courses above and beyond what is needed. I am currently working towards my Accredited Buyer Representation designation (this is the most professional designation to work with home buyers) and should have it by early 2012. What this all means to a buyer is that their best interests are being protected if they use a professional buyer agent like no other time in history. That being said if the buyer does buy direct from the listing agent these added protections are out the window as the Seller’s agent only represents the Sellers best interests and can and will use what you say against you in negotiations so watch what you say!