Your new dream home may be seen different through the eyes of your Realtor. I recommend using a designated buyer's agent. A good buyer's broker can save you thousands & a lot of headaches. It is especially important to use a seasoned, knowledgeable Real Estate agent that is familar with the markets you are interested in getting to get the best deals.
Buyer Brokerage (a.k.a. Buyer Agency or Buyer Representation) is very important for you, the buyer, to understand. Did you know that unless you have a signed "Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Agreement" with your agent, the agent represents the seller and not you? Even if you have been working with an agent for weeks on a consistent basis, if they do not represent you (by having the signed Buyer Brokerage) then it is not their duty to have your best interests in mind throughout the transaction. Simply put, that means that they could disclose things to the seller you may not want them to, such as your financial status, important personal information, or other confidential things you may have said to the agent. This gives the seller the upper hand in the transaction, and could ultimately lose you money.
The subdivision agent or listing agents are not working for you. Their job is to get the most money and best terms for their clients, the sellers! Hire a buyer´s agent to represent you and your interests at no cost to you.
Even if you know and trust your agent, it is in your best interest to sign an Exclusive Buyer Brokerage Agreement. It is very important that your agent puts your interests above anything else in the transaction. It is also required in the state of Georgia (O.C.G.A § 10-6A et. seq.) to disclose in writing that your agent represents you throughout the transaction.
