Choosing a Realtor
Choose a REALTOR with an Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) certification.
There are two sides to a real estate transaction – the seller’s side and the buyer’s side. While honesty, fairness and high ethical standards are expected from all Realtors, remember that each side is looking to protect their own best interest.
Typically the seller lists their home through a listing agent using a listing agreement contract. The listing agent is representing the seller’s best interest and focusing on negotiating top dollar for the seller. A buyer can contact the listing agent about their listing, but in doing so, there is a risk of a potential conflict of interest for the listing agent.
Think about it… how does a listing agent negotiate the highest price for the seller and the lowest price for the buyer – at the same time?
Accredited Buyers Agent Representative (ABR) has the the buyer’s best interest in mind and focuses on negotiating the home for the least possible price! There is no fee to the buyer for the services of a buyers agent.
A buyers agent will represent your best interests and guide you personally through the process of buying a home in Arizona. In addition, it has been statistically documented that in almost every real estate transaction, a buyers agent will save the buyer money!
Taking advantage of using a buyers representative's knowledge and expertise to narrow down your search based on certain criteria can help hone in on the right homes quickly.
They can help the out-of-state or out-of-country buyer who is not familiar with the market and areas save time by narrowing down communities that are most suitable for their family and lifestyle.
They are knowledgeable about the market and the different areas in Greater Phoenix. It is their expertise and advice you want to seek out in order to avoid mistakes.
They can guide you through the searching and buying process helping you secure the home that you want at the best price available and without wasting your time. More importantly they know where the best neighborhoods and school districts are and can help determine what part of town will be the best fit for you.
They can bring you up-to-date on the market and economic conditions in any area or community.
They can schedule the showing of the homes you are interested in seeing so you do not have to deal with all the different listing agents who are listing the homes you want to see.
After you have selected your buyers agent, talk to you mortgage lender and have the loan officer provide you with a Loan Status Report (this will be referred to as an LSR). Your buyers agent will need a copy of this document to better understand the price range of home you are qualified to purchase. This document will also be necessary at the time of writing an offer on the home of your choice.
Now it's time to find your HOME!