Navigating the Buying Process
Buying a home is one of life’s most exciting milestones – but it also can come with challenges and complexities. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a seasoned mover, having a trusted professional by your side is essential.
For top real estate agents, look no further than Coldwell Banker Realty. Our experienced network of affiliated agents offers home buyer advice for every step of your journey – from neighborhood insights, to the latest market trends that might impact your decision making.
Why Do I Need a Real Estate Agent?
You don’t need to go it alone. At Coldwell Banker Realty, our experienced agents bring local market knowledge and personalized support to make finding, buying and moving into your new home as smooth, quick and enjoyable as possible.
Working with a Coldwell Banker Realty affiliated agent offers more than just real estate know-how – it opens doors to invaluable information. Our agents have a deep understanding of market trends, know the ins and outs of various neighborhoods and can connect you with properties listed on the MLS – as well as homes that might not be publicly advertised.
Find a Real Estate Agent: Why the Right Fit Matters
The key word here is “right.” While there's certainly no shortage of qualified agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty to choose from, it's important that you find one who can fully understand your wants, needs and individual tastes, and whose personal and professional judgment you respect.
Before establishing a working relationship, the agent should present you with a disclosure statement. This explains what a buyer's agent is and does, what a seller's agent is and does, and what “dual agency” means. It is very important to remember that real estate firms are governed by state laws. These can vary, so disclosure laws may also vary.
How to Choose a Real Estate Agent
We suggest talking to several agents to find one who best fits your needs. As you compare options, here are some qualities to look for in an agent:
- Makes you feel comfortable.
- Knows the community and can point out schools, parks, playgrounds, shops and more.
- Can show you more of the homes available throughout the area.
- Subscribes to at least one Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which will give you access to information on approximately 90% of all homes for sale in the community.
- Offers the products, services and know-how to find the right home for you and showcase your current property for a profitable sale.
- Can guide you to a home warranty which offers protection for the critical parts of systems and appliances in your home, or homeowners insurance which provides protection against covered perils such as fire, theft and water damage.
- Listens to your needs and responds as a friend, showing as much interest in your satisfaction as in completing the transaction.
More Home Buyer Tips
Once you’ve selected an agent and started looking at homes, tell the agent everything you liked and didn't like about each home. Point out the home's shortcomings: Is it too small for your needs? Was the home perfect except for the carpeting? Details like this will help your agent narrow down the search.
Looking for Home Seller Tips?
If you’re getting ready to list your home, a local Coldwell Banker Realty affiliated agent is available for home seller advice and has access to the most advanced property marketing tools available. We know how to showcase your home to the right buyers!