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Buyer Representation

Buying a home is a big decision and a personal one.

You need the right person to find a home that suits your needs. 

 

 

So you've decided to buy a home. 
Purchasing real estate is a complex and major transaction with many details to be
handled.  Depending on the laws in your state and the business arrangement you have with a licensed real estate agent, that agent may actually be negotiating for the seller, not you the buyer.  The best way to be certain that an agent is working in your best interests is by signing a buyer representation agreement with an agent.

 

           


 

 

What is a Buyer Representative?

 

A real estate buyer's representative represents the buyer who is purchasing property in a real estate transaction.  Research by the National Association of REALTORS has shown that when a buyer's representative is used, the prospective buyer found a home one week faster and examined three more properties than consumers who did not use a buyer's representative.

The buyer's representative works for, and owes fiduciary responsibilities to, the real estate buyer and has buyer's best interests in mind throughout the entire real estate process.  A buyer's representative will: 

  • Evaluate the specific needs and wants of the buyer and locate properties that fit those specifications. 

  • Assist the buyer in determining the amount that they can afford (pre-qualify), and show properties in that price range and locale. 

  • Assist in viewing properties -- accompany the buyer on the showings, or preview the properties on behalf of the buyer to insure that the identified specifications are met. 

  • Research the selected properties to identify any problems or issues to help the buyer make an informed decision prior to making an offer to purchase the property. 

  • Advise the buyer on structuring an appropriate offer to purchase the selected property. 

  • Present the offer to the seller's agent and the seller on the buyer's behalf. 

  • Negotiate on behalf of the buyer to help obtain the identified property -- keeping the buyer's best interests in mind. 

  • Assist in securing appropriate financing for the selected property. 

  • Provide a list of potential qualified vendors (e.g. movers, attorneys, carpenters, etc.) if these services are needed. 

  • Most importantly, fully-represent the buyer throughout the real estate transaction. 

 

 

 

The Buyer Representation Agreement

It is important for the buyer to discuss the buyer's representative's agreement with you. The agreement should spell out the responsibilities of both parties throughout the real estate process. While compensation is normally paid from the proceeds of the sale at the seller's side, the buyer can have buyer's representation.

In some states, legislation has been enacted to protect the buyer to the point that, absent a written agreement, the buyer's representative represents the buyer throughout the real estate transaction.  Consult your REALTOR for complete details when you begin the purchase process.  

STATE OF MISSISSIPPI AGENCY FORMS

 Copyright 2007 - Merck Team Realty, Inc.

Merck Team Realty, Inc. is licensed to perform licensable real estate services

in the State of Mississippi by the Mississippi Real Estate Commission.

Company License #B-16122

Broker's License #B-13250

Mississippi recognizes single and dual agency relationships.

Prior to the exchange of any confidential information, we will discuss your agency options with you.

For More info, go to the state of Mississippi's Real Estate Commission www.mrec.state.ms.us