Why should I work with a buyer's representative?

Your Interests Come First
A buyer’s representative acts on behalf the buyer in the purchase of a property. The sales associate owes the buyer client undivided loyalty, reasonable care, disclosure, obedience to lawful instruction, confidentiality and accounting. The sales associate must put the buyer's interests first and attempt to negotiate price and terms acceptable to their buyer client.
Expertise
An experienced buyer’s representative can help you see opportunities, avoid mistakes and make the most of negotiations.
Market Knowledge
A buyer’s representative can help you focus on your wants and needs, and sort through the clutter to find your perfect home. Our knowledge of local communities, schools and exclusive market analytics help you make the best decisions.
Working for You
You have a right to representation. Home sellers often build the cost of a buyer’s representative into their asking price, and will have their own sales associate to represent their interests. People sometimes feel they may get a better deal by going to the listing sales associate, but often forget who that sales associate is working for, and end up paying more in the long run. An expert buyer’s representative will represent your interests, and work hard to ensure you are getting the most out of the transaction.

THE HOME BUYING PROCESS - Your Commonwealth Real Estate Sales Associate will be your resource every step of the way

1. Make a List
1. Make a List

Determining Wants and Needs

Before you start searching online or in person, make a list of the features you would like to have in a home. They can include, but certainly are not limited to number of bedrooms and bathrooms, open floor plan, multi- or single-story living, a fenced-in or open yard, setting and view, type of countertops or appliances, and any other must-have items on your list.

2. Find a Home
2. Find a Home

Finding the Right Home

Once you have determined your search criteria, your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate sales associate will provide their recommendations and send you regular updates with matching properties.

3. Offer & Purchase
3. Offer & Purchase

The Purchase Process

You’ve found your perfect home and now the time has come to submit an offer. For many, this can be a stressful time. Your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Commonwealth Real Estate sales associate will be there every step of the way and negotiate on your behalf to get you the best deal possible.


Make a smart investment.

You don’t choose a home because you love the paint color. No, an investment this big demands in-depth knowledge so that you can buy with confidence.

That’s where we come in. Our agents can provide more property data, including sale price history, neighborhood information and real-world context, than other agents nationwide. And we’ll not only pull the numbers, but also review each and every item with you until you’re certain that you’re making a smart investment.

Considerations

Should I Rent or Buy?

Before you answer, “Should I rent or buy?” here are some important questions to ask yourself — and the reasons why:

HOW LONG DO YOU PLAN TO STAY?
Most experts generally agree that you shouldn’t buy a home if you plan to stay for less than five years. Between the down payment and closing costs, you are paying a lot of upfront costs. The longer you own your home, the more likely you are to recoup these expenses, and as time passes, the house will typically appreciate in value. This increases the chances you’ll be able to sell for a profit. High demand for rental housing has led to high upfront costs for securing rentals, however, and in some instances, it may still be better to buy.  

HAVE YOU BEEN SAVING FOR A DOWN PAYMENT? 
Even though a 20% down payment isn’t always required, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to put down as much as you can. The less money you have for a down payment, the larger your mortgage will be, and depending on your credit score, the lender’s interest rate might make your mortgage payments higher than your budget will realistically allow — even if you’re well qualified. 

WHAT’S THE REAL ESTATE MARKET LIKE? 
The housing industry is constantly changing. It’s influenced by consumer confidence, interest rates, mortgage availability, and the supply of properties in your desired area. For example, if there are very few homes on the market, multiple bidders drive up the prices. Your sales associate and lender will work with you to assess whether it’s a good time to buy. 

ARE YOU READY FOR THE RESPONSIBILITY? 
If you’ve been renting for a while, you may be accustomed to calling maintenance when the dishwasher breaks or having someone else shovel your sidewalks. The responsibilities and associated costs of homeownership shift to your shoulders when it's your house. It’s important to assess whether this is the lifestyle you want — and be ready to budget for unexpected repairs and maintenance.

Ready to get started?

Our team of experienced real estate professionals are here to help you every step of the way.