A Realtor® brings expertise, market knowledge, and negotiation skills to the home-buying process. We help you find properties that match your specific needs, we guide you through the complex paperwork, and we advocate for your interests during negotiations, potentially saving you time and money. 

In just about all cases, the Buyer’s Real Estate Agent is compensated by the seller’s Real Estate Broker through a commission split agreed upon prior to the property being listed in the MLS. Most if not all real estate companies still charge a nominal transaction fee for processing the transaction paperwork. However, it’s important to confirm this in your Buyer Agent Agreement, as terms can vary.

A Buyer Agent Agreement is a contract outlining the agent responsibilities, compensation framework, and the duration of your working relationship. (As of August 2024 it is required of all Buyer Agents to have a signed Agreement with a Buyer before showing them a property, or face a $500 fine.) Review it carefully to understand your obligations before signing.

A Realtor® has access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database; tons of market data metrics, and industry connections that are not readily available to the public. They can point you to appropriate lenders, insurers, contractors, inspectors and closing agents; identify and parse through specifically detailed & available properties; streamline the scheduling of showings (timing is important for some properties); provide pricing, property and community insights; confidently negotiate contracts; and coordinate with lenders, inspectors, surveyors, appraisers, title agents, utility companies, contractors and attorneys to ensure a smooth transaction.

Yes, you can buy a home without a Realtor®, but it requires handling all of the complexities of the transaction yourself. A realtor’s expertise will reduce financial and transactional risks, point you in the right direction on all tranactional fronts, most likely save you tens of thousands of dollars through negotiations and lender reccomendations, and streamline the process, all while looking out for your best interests. It is in their best interest to do so – their reputation and return business from clients and referrals is the lifeblood of a Realtor®. Also, this is the largest purchase you may ever make. Do you really want to go at it without your own representation?

Yes, this is especially important if taxes, insurance and HOA payments are to be considered as a part of your pre-approval process. 3^rd party websites do not account for your budget when searching for an available property. A Realtor® can filter listings based on your budget and preferences, ensuring you focus on homes you are capable of purchasing. They can also connect you with lenders to get you pre-approved, giving you a clear picture of your purchasing power.