First time buyers must deal with a lot of uncertainty. Finding the right agent can help reduce the anxiety. Using an exclusive buyer agent will ensure that your agent will continue as YOUR agent.
New Jersey has provided a Consumer Information Statement that agents are supposed to give to you to review when they explain 'agency' to you.
Any agent can claim to be a 'buyer's agent ', but few can maintain that relationship throughout your home search. If the company "your" agent works for lists property for sale they may ask you to let them be a "dual agent" if they get the chance, instead of really being a buyer's agent. Just say no - that is not buyer representation.
I'll GUARANTEE- in writing - that I will ONLY work for you as YOUR agent in your home purchase - never as a 'dual agent' or seller's agent. That goes for every agent at Paul Howard Realty.
We are members of:The National Association of Exclusive Buyers' Agents
Real estate laws vary from state to state. Not only that, processing procedures can vary widely even within a state. It is important that you understand the steps in the process for the area in which you are searching.
If you have to sell a current home in order to finance a new purchase you face additional hurdles. A contingent buyer is generally in a weaker bargaining position when negotiating a new purchase. The further along the sale of your current home is the better.
If you haven't listed your home yet you are in a weak negotiating position. Listed but not yet under contract is better. Under contract is better still and under contract with completed inspections with a buyer that has a financing commitment is nearly as strong as a non contingent buyer - everything else being equal.
Copyright Paul Howard, All rights reserved.