Cindy’s Top 5 Reasons to Use a Buyer’s Agent When House Shopping

You guys probably know I love looking at houses online. I write about fun real estate listings all the time, and I'm looking forward to possibly buying my first home by myself sometime soon.

One Realty Partners has the perfect agents for a first-time buyer like me. Their past clients say they’re quick to return phone calls and emails, explained everything in ways that are easy to understand and really brought their expertise to every stage of the experience.

I did have someone question why I even needed a real estate agent as a buyer, though, so I did a little research. Here's why you want someone from One Realty Partners on your side:

1) The buyer's agent's commission is covered by the seller. That's right, you don't pay to have someone to negotiate the sale on your behalf, share their inside knowledge of the local market and accompany you on showings, perhaps catching red flags that you might otherwise miss. No downside there, I'd say.

2) The buyer's agent has in-depth experience. Do you know what to do if the inspection on your dream home reveals a leaky roof? Or how to evaluate if a home is overpriced for the local market? That's stuff I don't even really want to think about, but a real estate agent has lots of experience answering those kinds of tough questions so you can get the best house for your lifestyle and budget.

3) A buyer's agent has connections. Need a good mortgage broker? A good inspector? A painter or an HVAC contractor to take care of a few things before you move in? Your buyer's agent should be able to recommend any number of local professionals who can help you.

4) A buyer's agent understands all the legal mumbo jumbo. They take care of the offers and the contracts. As this real estate article points out, there are several specific deadlines and contingencies that need to be included, and your agent will make sure the contract is complete and fair to you.

5) Most people do it. According to HGTV, nine out of 10 people use a buyer's agent when they purchase a house. It's something sellers expect and lets the seller's agent know you are serious.

Ready to start shopping? Interest rates are low, so it's a great time to buy a house. Give One Realty Partners a call at (315) 793-7500 or start browsing listings now at onerealtypartners.com. Tell 'em I sent you!