It’s time. You are to embark on your journey as a first-time homebuyer. You could try to do it on your own. However, like many tasks in life, some are better handled by a professional. After all, the home-buying process can get complicated. Fortunately, with the assistance of a REALTOR®, the burden of finding and buying the home of your dreams can be lessened.
Who represents me, the buyer?
If you have stumbled across a property being advertised for sale, you will quickly find the name, phone number, and other contact information for a real estate agent that listed the property for sale. If you call their office and ask to speak to the listing agent, you will usually discover how quick they may be to offer help. However, before speaking to them, you need to understand the distinct difference between two terms – client and customer.
Listing agents, also referred to as a seller’s agent, works for the real estate company that lists and markets the property for the sellers. They exclusively represent the seller as their client. A seller’s agent may assist the buyer in purchasing the property as. a customer, but his or her duty of loyalty is only to the seller, their client.
A buyer’s agent, on the other hand, is a real estate professional who is legally licensed to represent the buyer and their interests in real estate transactions. That means they represent you and will protect your interests.
What is the difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent?
REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®, but all REALTORS® are licensed real estate professionals.