Home sellers hire real estate agents to market and sell their properties. If you’re a home buyer, it’s fair to ask, “What should my real estate agent be doing for me as a buyer?” That’s a fair question! Many first-time buyers are unaware of the many services buyers’ agents perform for their clients.
The seller has an agent. Why should I?
When a homeowner hires a real estate agent to represent him or her through the sale, that agent (by law) must only represent the seller’s interests. Remember, when negotiating, the seller’s agent looks out for the seller (not the buyer).
Because the homeowner has professional representation, the buyer should too. There are so many steps to buying a home, so much paper to be filed, and so many deadlines that the process can become mind-numbing. Experienced agents walk you through the process for a much smoother transaction.
You can represent yourself in a real estate purchase; however, one mistake could cost thousands in time. Buying a home is a legal process. It requires special training and a clear understanding of the laws as they apply to real estate. I have more than 30 years of experience helping people buy and sell real estate on the Wasatch Front and Back.
How much does a real estate agent cost?
The commission structure for real estate agents representing buyers shifted in the summer of 2024 to make costs more transparent and to empower buyers. Sellers used to pay the listing agent’s and buyer’s agent’s commissions. They were often built into the property’s sale price. Now in many transactions, buyers are responsible for covering their agent’s commission directly, like a service fee. This change aims to clarify the true costs of home buying and give buyers more control over selecting and negotiating their agent’s services.
This new structure encourages clear communication about agents’ fees and the value they provide, from home searches to negotiation expertise. I offer flexible fee options and help buyers make informed decisions. If you have questions about the new commission schedule, please call me at 801-673-3333, and I will go over it with you.
What does the buyer’s agent do?
While real estate agents often have solid relationships with lenders, they do not influence the lending process. It’s good to ask an agent you trust for a reference or contact information to reach a preferred lender.
When you contract with a buyer’s real estate agent, that agent agrees to help you identify your wants and needs and then find homes for sale that will accommodate you. Don’t worry about a thing. I will work with all sellers’ agents, schedule tours, and show you homes for sale. Count on me to help you evaluate each home and give you some honest feedback.
When you find the property that’s right for you, I’ll write an offer and present it to the seller’s agent. It is up to your buyer’s agent to negotiate the best terms for you. Very often a seller will return a counteroffer. I know the legal requirements and filing deadlines. My transaction coordinator runs a tight ship so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork. I’ll negotiate with the seller’s agent (based on your input) and we will walk with you through every step of the due diligence process.
As your buyer’s agent, I have three fiduciary responsibilities: Loyalty, obedience, and confidentiality. I take those responsibilities very seriously.
Don’t call the seller’s agent to save your buyer’s agent time
If you find a home on your own let me, you’re agent, make all the arrangements for you. As your representative, it’s my job to set appointments for you to see the properties you want to see.
What is dual agency?
In some cases, a real estate agent will represent the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. That’s called dual agency. Utah requires the consent to be in writing. You must be presented with, and sign, a disclosed dual agency. There are many circumstances under which this type of representation works.
Call me, maybe!
I have over 30 years of experience helping Utah home buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals. If you have questions about the process, the cost, or the current market, I am here to answer them! Call or text 801-673-3333.
