Why Pay for a Buyer’s Agent?

Posted on | February 3, 2009 | No Comments

Why Pay for a Buyer’s Agent?
by Matt Clark, Cincinnati Realtor
Cincinnati Real Estate

First let me clarify my title. When you are buying a home in Cincinnati you ABSOLUTELY DO NOT PAY TO HAVE A BUYER’S AGENT. As a buyer, your representation is FREE!! Then how do I get paid for helping you find a home? When a seller puts their home on the market they agree to pay x % to their agent (the listing agent). The listing agent pays the buyer’s agent a percentage of that. So you get an expert to represent YOUR interest’s and you don’t pay a dime for it. Why would you not get your own buyer’s agent? There is absolutely no reason.

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!

Category: buyers, cincinnati first time home buyers, cincinnati real estate, realtor

Comments

Recently Written

First Time Home Buyer Guide:

Are you a first time home buyer or just in need of some creative ideas for your home? This Creative Ideas Guide from Lowes features great tips on painting, how to be more green, and easy updates to make your home standout.

Welcome!

Want to follow the trends going on with Cincinnati Real Estate? Head straight over the Cincinnati Real Estate Blog or scroll down some more to learn more about Cincinnati's great neighborhoods. Here you'll also find out more about the marketing services I offer if you are Selling your Cincinnati home or how to become a VIP Buyer if you're Buying a home in Cincinnati.

Subscribe to our feed

Search Oakley Homes for Sale

Search Hyde Park Homes for Sale

Search Norwood Homes for Sale

Search Anderson Homes for Sale

Search

Need a question answered right now? See if I'm online below.

If I'm not online, the quickest way to reach me is to call or text message 513.259.8333 or you can always reach me by email at Matt@MattClarkCincinnati.com

Cincinnati Real Estate Blog