Last week a prospective home buyer said “I don’t want to pay for an agent,” and I hear this a lot; that is why I bring it up.

Using a professional Realtor is very important. I’m sure you’ve heard before that buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. If going to the doctor was free, why would you ever try to fix your own broken leg? You wouldn’t. A Realtor sells homes for a living; we sell more each year than you will in your entire life. We have an intense knowledge and expertise of the Cincinnati real estate market (we do much more than open doors..).

FAQs

• Won’t I pay less for a house if I don’t use an agent?

ABSOLUTELY NOT! Many people think that because there is only one agent involved (instead of two) that the seller will be more flexible on price because they only have to pay one agent. In theory this would make sense, but in reality the seller will pay the same amount either way. The only difference is if the seller’s agent keeps it all or has to split it with a buyer’s agent. A good Realtor is a professional negotiator…you will pay less for a home if you use an agent!

• Won’t it be easier if I just use the listing agent also?

The listing agent legally has a duty to protect the seller’s interests. The seller wants the most money possible for their home. Is that what you want? The buyer and seller have conflicting wants. Using your own buyer’s agent will make sure that you have someone biased towards you and fighting for your cause. And it’s FREE!

• What will a buyer’s agent do for me?

Here are just a few of the many things I do for my buyer clients…
Setup automatic home searches, so you’re the first to know when your dream home hits the market.
Refer you to a few reputable lenders to get you the best deal and the right loan for you.
Tour homes with you and point out important characteristics.
Give you my professional opinion of what a home is worth, so you pay the least amount possible.
Refer you to a few reputable home inspectors so you get a thorough inspection of the home.
Explain all the legal contracts involved and guide you through the entire process.
Negotiate offers on your behalf to achieve your objective of getting the best deal possible.
And I answer all your questions, because that’s my job!

To recap, whether you use me or someone else, the use of a buyer’s agent is absolutely crucial when buying a home. We will save you tons of money, and you won’t pay a dime!

Enjoy the weather!

November Pending Cincinnati Home Sales Off 8%
Compared to National Slide of 19%

Pending home sales in southwest Ohio and southeast Indiana in November were as follows:
Pending sales Nov. 2007 1,522
Pending sales Nov. 2006 1,656
Local Variance -8.1%
Nationwide Variance -19.2%

Pending sales are contracts written, but not yet closed. Closings typically occur 30-45 days
after contracts are accepted, with the exception of cash transactions, which close faster.
“November and December typically are our slower months,” said Karen Schlosser, president
of the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors. “Sales then pick up in January and are strongest
from March through August.”
Several factors have affected the market this past year, including subprime mortgage loans
and higher-than-usual housing inventory.
“Smart buyers now have a distinct advantage with the array of homes for their buying
consideration,” said Schlosser. “Add to that attractive prices and low mortgage rates.”