Should you hire a buyer agent when you’re looking for a new home? Unfortunately, many buyers try skipping this critical step because they either don’t know how to hire a buyer agent, or they think the agent will cost them a lot.
However, when you work with buyers agents in Australia, they offer many perks that save you time and money.
Let’s take a look at the five reasons you need to work with a buyer’s agent.
1. A Buyers Agent Knows What to Look for When Viewing Houses
Whether this is your first or twentieth time purchasing a home, there’s a good chance that unless you’re a contractor or inspector, you’ll never walk into as many homes as a buyer agent. These agents walk into homes every day, and they know:
- Key problem areas in the house to examine
- Red flags indicating that a home may not be up to standards
The buyer agent works in your best interest, and they’ll spot areas where there are leaks, roofing issues, mould, pests or other issues. Major components naturally wear over time, and a well-experienced agent can inspect these areas for signs of imminent failure.
2. A Buyers Agent Understands the Real Estate Market
Real estate markets can differ drastically from one neighbourhood to the next. A nice house, identical to another, can cost 20 – 50% more, depending on the neighbourhood. The agent knows the local market to help you find homes that are:
- Within your budget
- In your criteria
The agent also knows which neighbourhoods are dangerous and have high levels of crime. When you’re new to an area, the agent can provide invaluable insight into places you’re considering buying a home in.
3. A Buyers Agent Will Know How to Write Real Estate Contracts
Real estate contracts are complex, and improper legal language can mean that certain terms in the agreement won’t be in your best interest. Navigating real estate sales is difficult, and you need to make sure that the contract is written in your best interest.
If certain repairs must be made or conditions added to the contract, it’s essential to work with someone who has contract experience.
Buyers agents know how to write real estate contracts and read them. When the seller supplies a contract or there are specific conditions you want in the contract, working with a buyer agent that understands the ins and outs of these contracts is a vital choice.
After all, once you sign on the dotted line, you agree to all of the contract terms, even if they’re not in your best interest.
4. A Buyers Agent Will Have Access to Experienced Professionals Needed During a Transaction
Buying a home is an important decision, and it requires a team of professionals. For example, if your contract needs to have special terms, the buyers agent already has industry connections that can help.
The agent, if they’ve been in the business for any length of time, will help access to professionals that can help you through the entire purchase process, including:
- Inspecting the home to be sure that there are no hidden issues with the home that you may overlook.
- Law firms that specialise in real estate contracts and transactions.
- Contractors that can assist with home repairs or estimates on repair costs.
Due to their value in the home buying process, it’s important to work with a buyers agent who has experience and connections in the industry.
5. A Buyers Agent Will Keep the Transaction on Schedule
You’re excited to finally get the keys to your new home, and the buyer agent will work to ensure everything goes according to plan. Unfortunately, a lot of sales have delays and other issues that seemingly push closing dates further back.
The interruptions and issues are expected, and a great agent will work to circumvent the most common delays on your behalf.
A buyers agent will adhere to deadlines, minimise closing delays, and meet all other fine details.
Buyers agents assist buyers with the purchasing process. When you work with the agent, they’ll help you keep your emotions in check, walk you through the purchasing process and may even save you money.
Hire a buyer’s agent today and let them work through the fine details of the home buying process.