I've been a full time realtor for 28 years.
Yes, before computers existed and when we had to wait for our hotsheets of new listings via the daily mail.
Even way back then, sellers knew to call a Real Estate company...or several when they were thinking of selling their home. When they did, the invited realtors would visit the home, discuss their marketing strategies, suggest a listing price.
Then, the seller picked their agent and listed their home.
And...way back then, all agents whether working with the seller or any buyer worked for the seller....even if the agent across town who took a buyer to your home never met you.
In other words, long ago, no company offered buyers representation.
Since sellers got counselling, it was only fair that buyers got some too, so some companies and agents began to offer Buyer Representation.
So, today, when you're buying a home, in my opinion, you should interview a few agents to know whether they're a good fit for you.
The choice of a good Real Estate professional will make a difference in your life. First of all, good agents make the process look easy....it's not. Secondly, the training your agent has can save you thousands (either in direct negotiation or by providing peace of mind).
There are lots of good agents in the business. One way to find them is to interview several. The second is to find them by the designations/ training they've earned or completed.
If you're buying or selling, one website to check is the one that shows Certified Residential Specialists (or CRS agents). The Certified Residential Specialists are those agents who have achieved what's recognized as the PhD of our industry. Click on http://www.crs.net to find a local Certified Residential Specialist.
If you're looking for trained Buyers' Agents, you can find them at http://www.rebac.net/MembershipDirectorySearch.aspx or http://www.cbrsource.com
Many companies today offer seller and buyer representation.
Today, when I'm working with buyers, they are taught how to spot a good buy even before they see their first home, I urge them to get a home inspection, an air quality test, water test if the house has well water), oil tank test (if the tank is in the ground) and more. It's a small cost to pay to find out more about the place they'll call home for years. They are given info on the recent sales in the area so they're informed buyers when negotiating, and so much more.
It pays to interview several Real Estate agents when you're thinking of buying a home.
Now that you know your options, you've become a more informed home buyer!
With all time low mortgage rates, this is a great time to buy!
Donna Bruno is the Owner/Broker of Century 21 North Star Realty located in the Beach Shopping Center in Peekskill, NY 10566. They service all of Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess and offer Seller and Buyer Representation.
