11.01.2002 :: Real Estate
What Is A Buyer's Agent Anyway?
by Graham Morland

Now that you know what a seller's agent is, you're probably wondering what exactly a buyer's agent does. Hopefully this article will shed some light on this.

Why understanding "Agency" is the first step toward success...

"Agency" in real estate refers to the nature of the fiduciary responsibility that exists between you and the real estate professional you choose to work with. Having a complete understanding of the nature of this relationship is the first step to achieving your real estate goals.

Only after signing a legally binding document does a real estate professional become your agent. As your agent, that REALTORŪ now has a legal obligation to insure the protection of your best interests in every facet of the transaction.

It's about loyalty and responsibility...

Traditionally, real estate professionals worked mostly as agents of the seller, not the buyer. Their loyalties and responsibilities rested with those of the seller.

REALTORSŪ working with buyers were, in fact, acting as "sub-agents" of the seller, keeping the seller's loyalties ahead of those of the buyer. Often, the buyer had no idea of the true nature of this relationship.

Today's Buyers have an option...

Buyers may now retain a real estate professional to represent their financial and legal interests when it comes to the purchase of a home. It's called a "Buyers Agent".

All parties in a real estate transaction deserve to have the best and most professional representation possible. To accomplish this, it is crucial to know with whom your obligation lies.

As a Buyer's Agent, I am able to provide my clients with any and all information relevant to the transaction. From pricing to material condition, I am committed to insuring that no stone is left unturned before an offer is made.

In the negotiation phase of the purchase I can fully harness all my skills to insure that my client's best possible deal is the one that is made!

Your real estate transaction is one of the most important financial decisions that you will ever undertake. As a real estate professional, I understand this and consider loyalty and commitment the right way to work with buyers. In fact, it's the only way.

Graham Morland is the producer of SantaCruz-RealEstate.com. He moved to the field of professional real estate after a very successful career as an executive in high technology computing. Currently the broker/owner of Sterling Properties, Graham can be reached by email at Graham@SantaCruz-RealEstate.com or by phone at 831.688.2310.