Smart Buyers

How to be a Savvy Buyer in Real Estate

There are some things most real estate agents won't tell you when buying a home. You want to have an honest, trustworthy agent on your side but here are some tips to keep in mind for yourself.

Avoid Dual Agents

If you are buying a home, you probably think you don't need to enlist the help of a buyers agent to buy a home. You can simply find an open house, if you like it, the agent on hand will be happy to write up the contract for you. But if you use the listing agent as your buying agent, they not only receive the entire commission but their first loyalty is to the seller and not you, the buyer. Having your own agent protects you and they have your best interest at heart, plus it costs nothing to use a buyers agent since they receive half the commission from whatever home you buy. [For more about agents see our Seattle property management partner]

Be aware of everything you sign up to the end

Many times the loan you signed up for is not always the want you get. Be sure before you sign the final papers that everything you agreed on during the process is still the case. Even in the final house documents make sure there is nothing that you did not orginially agree on. A good agent and loan officer or escrow officer will help you understand all the details. If they won't, maybe they are hiding something. [See our Fairbanks AK real estate professional for more on documents]

Consider using your own Inspector

Most real estate agents have a relationship with an inspector or two and can offer their services when needed. But most agents also want the deal to go through and you never know when an inspector is in the agent's back pocket. It's recommended that you seek your own unbiased inspector that will be honest with you and has no incentive to push the deal either way. This will ensure a more accurate report. [Visit our Verde Valley real estate affiliate for more on buying]

For more information on how to buy smart in Seattle real estate contact us today. We have information and home buying seminars going on all time that will help you make an informed real estate decision.