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Friday, April 3, 2009

A Homebuyer's Guide To Working With A Seller's Agent

By Alexandria P. Anderson

It is essential to understand the steps in home buying especially if this is the first time that you will purchase a new house. Buying a home usually involves working with a subagent otherwise known as the seller's agent or seller broker. These agents are the ones who act as the seller's representatives whenever closing a deal. As such, they are entitled to a commission in addition to rights and responsibilities towards the buyer.

Each state may have distinctive regulations when it comes to home buying. Similarly, the national law has certain prohibitions relative to it. As suggested by the author of the book "100 Questions Every Home Buyer Should Ask", home buyers must make an effort to read thoroughly all the documents such as agent's forms and disclosures before signing to fully understand the services being offered. There are several things that a seller's agent may or may not be allowed to do in your favor:

The seller's agent cannot disclose the list of comparable home's prices in the area. Often referred to as 'comps', a compilation of similar homes in the area will be given to you. Comps usually consist of listing information and list prices. This is necessary to ensure that an unreasonable price is avoided once negotiation takes place.

The seller's agent cannot point out which home you should purchase. The decision on which home to buy comes from only you. If you are torn between two properties, the seller's agent cannot insist on having you chose one over the other even if he is working for the sellers of both properties.

The seller's agent cannot point out defects in the home. The seller broker cannot say anything that would influence your decision to purchase, or not purchase the property. Any material hidden defects can be disclosed, but you will need to conduct your own research to find out if the home is in good condition.

The seller's agent is not allowed to disclose information and offer suggestions regarding the property's best offer. In most cases, the buyer is tempted to inquire on the amount that must be prepared for the home purchase. However, your seller's agent cannot disclose said information at the time you were communicating. The seller agent has to follow certain conventions particularly as this may affect his relationship with the seller.

The seller's agent can ask list of referrals from you. Seller brokers have the right to request for referrals from you, and that includes your acquaintances, friends, and family members. Many of these seller brokers are independent business owners and it would be an act of goodwill to help them find new clients.

When you are working with a seller's agent as a first time home buyer, it's important to remember that they are in the business to make the home buying process as easy as possible. This doesn't always mean that they have your best interests in mind, so it's important to do your own research about the property and work with a professional real estate agent in addition to the seller's agent. - 23212

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