Buyer Agent Questions, and if we were sitting down today, here are my Answers

How long have you been in the real estate business?

Wow, it seems like just yesterday... yet I have decades of memories handing clients their house keys. I am a full-time Realtor and started in the real estate industry around 2000. I have completed over 430 transactions with about half of them working for buyer’s purchasing a home. Why is that important? Having the experience on the selling side makes me a better buyer’s agent when negotiating your purchase.

The number of transactions has equipped me to handle many different scenarios.  And this will be beneficial for you.

How familiar are you with my target location?

I am, as you have found my information for a specific city or area that I service or appreciate. I have knowledge of the property values and real estate trends to share with you while we deepen you search for the right home. In addition, there is additional details that are not online or readily available to the public. Knowing how to sift through data and history is what makes me a Local Market Expert.

 

Before looking at homes, do you require a buyer to get a pre-qualification letter?

Honestly, it is in your best interest to do so. We may go out once to look within a certain range just to verify what you are searching for will match your desires. But knowing what you qualify for and how much house your desired payment would look like is an important step in your search. Qualifying up or down an extra $50,000 can completely change the type, size, and condition of available homes for us to tour. My goal is to help find the most house for as close to your desired budget and/or payment range. Lastly, the pre-qual letter strengthens your offer on a property telling the seller you are serious and ready to go.

 

How many buyers are you working with right now?

Personally, it seems to always be around a half dozen or so. Everyone has a different timeline for when and what they want to purchase. I always suggest working with your Realtor well before the purchase to be fully prepared for when that day comes to actually purchase. Some buyers are looking for a specific type of home, others are looking for good investments, others before or after life events like graduations or retirement. Planning, shopping, and submitting offers is the process and I always focus on going as fast or as slow as you desire or need.

 

Do you charge a fee, and are there any contracts to sign?

Typically, the sellers pay the commissions for a real estate sale. But my responsibility, duty, and trust are to you “the buyer” specifically.

There is a Buyer’s Agency Agreement which seasoned Realtors, like me, do recommend. The agreement informs you of my duties and responsibilities and confirms your commitment to be working together. And YES, I will work harder knowing that I have an assurance to be compensated when we find that perfect home for you and/or your family.

 

How can I communicate with you?

I use email for the important details, phone calls for clarifications and discussions, and text for check-ins and updates. I schedule our conversations around your schedule. It could be at 6am or 9pm once I learn what is best for you. We also will cover many topics while we are out looking at properties together. I focus on making myself available to you for whenever you have feelings or questions about the process and/or real estate in general.

 

I need to sell my existing home before purchasing a new one. How will you help me ensure a smooth transition selling and buying at the same time?

With experience and knowing the details. I have been recognized as a Transition Specialist. Starting with our first meeting and learning your end goal, abilities, and desires. I’ll be honest and upfront about what it takes, the reality of the situation, and how to get it all done. I’ll advise you on timelines, contingencies, and back-up plans from start to finish to make it all seem easy…

 

How do you handle inspection issues?

Immediately, and with several suggestions depending on what was found during the inspection. I’ll analyze the report so that we can compare notes and formulate a request back to the seller. I’ll schedule additional inspections when needed or to obtain more accurate estimates. The inspection phase is an important to the seller as it is for you because they want to move on. Handling it quickly and negotiating what remedy is best for you allows everyone to rest easy. We’ll talk about credits, price, and possible repairs before closing when possible. Timeliness is the key and I’m on it!

 

Tell me about your negotiation style and experience.

I like to say aggressive with diplomacy. I work for and want the best for you, my client. I am sensitive to others while asserting that our position and requests will be in everyone’s best interest. I stick to the point and save nuggets of information to be used when needed. I have obtained an advanced designation of Master Certified Negotiation Expert and have elevated that training over the years.

 

Can you share some past clients as references?

Definitely, and I am glad you asked. I get to spend quality time during a transaction that it feels like being part of the family. It would be an honor for you to contact other homeowners and ask questions about their experience in the process. Buying a home may be the biggest purchase of your life and you want to make sure you are working with the best Realtor for you! Might I suggest Broker FARR

Okay, reach out to get started...

Broker Pro Tip:

If you are consider hiring a friend or relative, do yourself a favor and interview them too. To keep your relationship in good, expect to hold them to the same standards as any other Realtor. Remember, just because someone has a license doesn’t mean that they are good or can get the job done.