Many people come to me looking for advice on how to select a buyer’s agent. We told you how to select a listing agent in our post, Quick Guide to Interviewing Listing Agents.
A Buyer’s Agent, however, is distinctly different by training, temperament and allegiance from a Listing Agent. While a Listing Agent’s job is to work for the seller to maximize price and minimize time on market, the Buyer’s Agent’s job is to help the Buyer find a home that meets their criteria while getting the best business deal. Buyer’s Agents often need to have more patience, better market knowledge and, most importantly, a sense of loyalty to their clients. Remember, you are hiring them to watch your back, so to speak, not help the seller!
One very important point must be made: all real estate brokers and agents have access to the same information. In a mandatory Multiple Listing Service area, like we have in San Mateo County, every listing and every change to that listing must be entered into the MLS system within 24 hours. This levels the playing field so every participant has the equal access to property information and no one has an “insider’s advantage.” Agents that try to claim that they have one are operating dishonestly.
All real estate agents are neither qualified nor willing to work as a Buyer’s Agent and all Buyer’s Agents are not alike. Interviewing several agents and asking for recommendations is always a good idea.
If you’d like more information on how to pick your agent, drop us a comment or email and we’ll email you a free copy of our 10 Questions to Ask Your Realtor guide to interviewing Buyer’s Agents.
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Tags: choose a realtor, first time home buyer, home buyer, san mateo county real esate
Raymond Stoklosa, Broker/Co-Owner
Chela Stoklosa, Realtor/Co-Owner
