Should I Have A Real Estate Agent If I Am A Buyer?

When one looks for a home, most people think the agent on the sign will give them the best price for the home if they choose to purchase that home. So, they call the agent on the sign, and set up an appointment to meet with that agent. Ok! Who represents YOU? That agent represents the SELLER, and not the BUYER! That does not mean the agent will cheat you, and take advantage of you, but he/she has the seller's best interest in mind, not your's!

Most people think if they "hire" a real estate agent to represent them as buyers, they have to pay him/her a fee to help them find a home. With this in mind, most people will choose to be represented by the agent on the sign rather than "hire" an agent to represent them. Just a reminder; in Ohio (and in most states), the buyer agent works for the buyer AT NO COST TO THE BUYER! What? That's right! The buyer agent works with you at no cost to you. How does the buyer agent get compensated? Good question! The listing agent, once the home is sold, splits his/her commission with the buyer agent. That's why the commission is from the seller, and not the buyer.

So, to answer the above question, you SHOULD have a real estate agent help you find the home you need! Don't go it alone!