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Do I Need a REALTOR® When Buying a House?

by Jared S. Mandel of Automatic Real Estate Associates 

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If you’re looking for a home on Long Island, then you’ve probably considered whether you should search and buy on your own or get help from a real estate professional, or buyer’s agent, such as a REALTOR®.

When buying a home, it’s best to work with a licensed real estate professional who knows the ins and outs of real estate transactions and will always have your best interests at heart. Can you DIY it? Probably, but the benefits of working with a licensed real estate salesperson far outweigh buying on your own. 

What does it cost to work with a REALTOR® when buying a home?

The good news is that it doesn’t cost the buyer anything! When using a real estate agent to buy a home on Long Island, and in most other places, the commissions are all paid by the seller. Even to the buyer’s agent.

When it comes to deciding if you should work with a real estate agent in search of the perfect home, we know that cost is likely the biggest barrier, so hopefully this helps you get over that hurdle. If you still need more convincing, read on.

4 benefits of working with a REALTOR®

Here’s our top 4 reasons to always work with a real estate professional when buying a home:

  1. Fiduciary – Realtors are held to a higher code of ethics than a licensed real estate salesperson, and all real estate salespersons have a fiduciary duty to their clients. This means they must always act in the best interest of their clients. Without an agent, you won’t have the guidance and protection of a fiduciary.
  2. Negotiation – Having someone who is well versed in negotiating real estate transactions can help save you time and money (and ultimately can help you secure your dream home). Most home buyers only make 1-3 real estate transactions in their life, but real estate professionals can do dozens per year! This means they’re well versed in getting you the best deal possible.
  3. Expertise – The expertise a real estate agent brings to the table isn’t something to be underestimated. They eat, sleep, and breathe real estate, which means they’re on top of the latest trends, market happenings, and more. It’s not just about finding you a home, it’s about getting you the best deal, making sure that the home is in good shape, and ensuring you get to the closing table. It’s a process, but real estate agents can help pave a smooth path to your new front door.
  4. Time – You know the saying “time is money” and that rings true with real estate! Whether you’re in a time crunch to find a home fast or are taking your time to find the right deal, a professional real estate agent can help save you time through the buying process and handle many of the administrative tasks that go along with a search and purchase.

Are you ready to connect and learn more about how we can work together to find your dream home? GET STARTED >>

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Home Buying FAQs

What does a Buyer's Agent cost?

It doesn't cost anything for a buyer to work with an agent! Buyer's are paid a commission by the seller. That means, we work FOR YOU for FREE!

What does a Buyer's Agent do?

We hold a fiduciary duty to you, the buyer client, which means we will always be acting in your best interest on your behalf. As your agent, we will:

  • Help you find homes that fit your criteria
  • Set up and conduct showings of potential homes you may be interested in buying
  • Help prepare comparative and other market analyses so that you are better informed in your search and ultimate home purchase
  • Look out for and indicate any "red flags" that may come up
  • Help you through the inspection, contract, financing, and closing process
  • Ensure that your interests are looked after in any real estate transaction 
Do I need an agent when buying?

Technically no, but it's in your best interest. There is no downside to using an agent when buying a home, and in most cases, a seller's agent will require you to have one. It's best to avoid using the seller's agent as your agent (called dual agency) because it's difficult for them to have both the seller's and your best interests looked after.

But don't I need to pay you a commission or fee?

Nope! All commissions and fees are paid by the seller's agent of the home you ultimately purchase.

Where on Long Island do you help buyers?

All of Nassau and Suffolk County!

How do I get started with an agent?

It's easy. Just fill out the form on this page to get started.

Jared S. Mandel

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson in New York: 10401345561
REALTOR® and MLS Member

© 2021 Jared S. Mandel. All Rights Reserved.

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