Why Every Buyer Needs A Buyer's Agent
Any confidential information that the Buyer shared with the agent could be reported to the Seller. All agents were legally bound to represent the Seller and the Buyer had no representation.
Today you have a choice.
For more information on the types of representation available to you, please read:
It's The Law: Who Does Your Agent Represent?
Do you want to be Customer or a Client?
As a Buyer, if the real estate agent assisting you is the Seller's Agent or Sub-Agent, you will receive Customer-Level Service.
If you sign a Buyer's Agency Agreement with a real estate agent, that agent will be representing you in the transaction and can provide you with Client-Level Service.
What's the difference?
Customer-Level Service
As a customer, you are given the facts about a transaction. The Seller's Agent will work with you to complete the paperwork required to make an offer, but he / she can't advise you as to what would be a fair offer for the property.
In fact, anything that you say to the agent while writing up the offer, can (and should) be passed on to the Seller. The Seller's Agent must work to provide the Seller with the best offer on the property.
Note: Missouri law requires that if you want representation, you must enter into a written agreement. If you would like to review this legally binding document prior to your initial meeting with Alice Leeper, please call (573) 446-3459 to request a copy.
Client-Level Service
As a client, your Buyer's Agent can provide you with advice in addition to the facts.
Because the agent is working for you in this transaction, you can share confidential information without fear that it may get back to the Seller.
Your agent can:
Educate you on the purchasing process Suggest financing alternatives that may offer you a better advantage Provide price counseling when you are ready to make your offer Suggest protective clauses to be added to your offer / purchase agreement Share with you any information that the agent learns about the Seller or the property
Whether the Seller will accept a lower price The Seller's reason for selling and timetable How long the home has been on the market Strengths and weaknesses of the property Negotiate on your behalf with the SellerYour agent will work diligently to find the home that meets or exceeds your expectations.
