Lisa Johnson's House and Home - Articles on Home, Family, and Living

Lisa Johnson on Buying a New Home or House

Chapter 4: Do you need a Real Estate Agent?

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October 1, 2003

In general, you do not need a real estate agent.

When we bought our home, we didn't have one. We dealt directly with the builder's sales representative. In some ways, they act as a real estate agent, even though they are not working for you. But, they do handle all the necessary paper work to perform the sale, and makes things as easy as possible for you.

But when we went touring around the developments browsing the model homes, once in a while we saw what appeared to be a real estate agent showing a prospective buyer a home.

I'm not sure what a real estate agent would do for you, other than review all the paper work and forms, and make sure you're not getting the short end of the stick. If you feel it necessary to hire a real estate agent, you should perhaps first explain your needs, and see what they say.

My sense is that real estate agents would not be willing to work with you, or else, you'd have to pay them out of your own pocket. Most agents are compensated at a percentage of the seller's commission (often 3% of the sales price), and I'm guessing that the builder (who is the seller) is not willing to cough up 3% just to sell you a home.

Next:   Chapter 5 - The Downpayment

Suggested Links

·  Tips on Buying a Home

·  HUD Homebuying Guide

·  Homebuying Consumer Info Center

·  Real Estate ABC

·  Home Buying Guide.com