What should you look for in a Buyer's Agent for a condo?

Profile picture for khcable

I'm a potential buyer in or near Myrtle Beach.  Being new to the process, how can I find a good buyer's agent, who will be patient and represent my interest as buyer and not the sellers?  Agents I've spoken with need a signed agreement at time offer is to be made, a bit late for me to know if dual agency etc is an issue.

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May 01 2011 - Myrtle Beach
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Answers (9)

Profile picture for sunnyview
You might try contacting the naeba for a referral here if you have been unable to find one in your area. There is also this EBA agency in Myrtle Beach here. I know nothing about them personally, but you could check them out.

I will say that if the only EBA available is one who already has bad communication upfront, I would pass. In that case, you would be better off going with an agent that is not not an EBA and is not connected with the listing office or specific house that you are interested in.

An honest agent that you have good communication with is really important and that should be your first consideration over any special buyers agent designation.
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May 02 2011
Profile picture for khcable

Thank you all for your advice.  The only "exclusive buyer agent" I've found in MB area touts representing buyers, but does not respond to email.  Is there a directory or web site of some type that I can find EBA's? 

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May 02 2011
Profile picture for optimaproperties
All agents in Florida MUST disclose at first substantive contract who they work for  ( listing agent, sub-agent of the seller, etc.)

Before buying a home or real estate you should interview several real estate agents and ask all the agents you interview these questions:
  • Do you spend 100% of your time representing Buyers?
  • Will you guarantee me that you will not be representing any seller at any time while you are working for me?
  • Do you, or the company you are with, ever list properties for sale?
  • Will you point out all the negative aspects of each property as well as all the positive aspects so I will be fully informed when making my decision?
  • Will you provide information on comparable sales and help me formulate an offering price and negotiating strategy?
  • Do you have a list of lenders, home inspectors, insurance agents and other professionals that you recommend?
  • Will you tell me everything you can find out about the seller and their reasons for selling?
  • Will you show me all the homes on the market that meet my needs, including For Sale By Owner properties, foreclosures, and other properties?
  • Will you guarantee that any information I give you will be kept confidential?
  • Will you guarantee me your undivided loyalty?
  • Will you guarantee me you will not try to change your relationship with me to "dual agency", "designated agent", transactional agent", or any other form of agency that offers reduced levels of service?

Only an Exclusive Buyers Agent working in an Exclusive Buyer Agency can answer "Yes!" to ALL of the questions.

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May 02 2011
Profile picture for MariaMorton
I have an initial consultation with buyer clients before we even begin looking at homes. During the consultation, we go over Agency Agreements, the Buying Process, how I work, what they want and see how we get along. If it feels like we can work together, we sign the agreement; if not, they can find another agent.
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May 01 2011
If you can track down Ed Hudson in the area, he is a former exclusive buyer agant and well respected nationwide for his experience in representing buyers.  He probably would would have the most knowledgeable person to steer you in the right direction if being properly represented is your biggest concern.

Yes, many Realtors love to talk about how well dual agency can work....for them.  Seldom if ever for the benefit of the buyers or sellers.  Wonder how many spouses would look back on a divorce and say "lucky my husband/wife let me use their attorney too or we never would have got this done if I had my own expert representing my interests?"   : )
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May 01 2011
Profile picture for Listingforless

Unless your agent is also listing the home you will not be in 'dual agency'.  I work mainly with first time buyer's.  Your agent will have a 'fudiciary' relationship with you.  It wouldn't be lawful for an agent to have the seller's best interest at heart.  Don't worry, that won't happen.  Maybe you can get a recommendation from others you may know who have bought in that area.  If not, go with an agent you feel very comfortable with.  Myrtle Beach is a beautiful area, good luck!

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May 01 2011
khcable,

According to S.C. Real Estate License Law, you must be provided a brochure on Agency Relationships in South Carolina at the "first practical opportunity when you and the licensee have substantive contact." Not only should they give you the brochure, but they should explain it to you and ask if you have any questions. Here is the link for the brochure: Agency Disclosure Brochure.

It goes into detail about the responsibilities of the agent when you are a "customer" and when you are a "client." You can only become a Client by entering into a written agency agreement which requires the real estate company and the agent to act on your behalf and promote your best interest. As a buyer, you would sign a "Buyer Agency Agreement" with the Company.

Just to save you time, (this is from the brochure) "as a Client you can expect the real estate company to provide the following client-level services: Obedience, Loyalty, Disclosure, Confidentiality, Accounting, Reasonable care and skill, advice, counsel and assistance in negotiations."

Also, when you sign a Buyers Agency Agreement paragraph 7 of the Exclusive Right to Buy Buyer Agency Contract (approved by SC Association of Realtors) YOU have to give your consent if you want your agent to act as a Dual Agent or Designated Agent. It also list the Broker's Duties and the Buyer's Duties.

I'll be glad to send you a blank form if you'd like.

Thanks,

Gary
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May 01 2011
khcable,
Look for a Realtor who may specialize in condos in the area.  Also, interview 3 or 4 agents to get a feel for local knowledge and their personalities.  You have to feel comfortable with them for a good relationship. Any agent who is full time and knows what they are doing will want a buyers agreement at the beginning of the relationship.  This is what will formally protect both parties, you and them. If you have a Realtor working for you with an agreement, I would feel very comfortable that they are looking for your needs only.
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May 01 2011
Thanks for your question.  Some agents require a signed buyer agency agreement before they even get in the car, some do not.  The only way for you to end up in dual agency is if the buyer's agent you selected shows you one of his office's listings you want to put an offer in on.  You should be well represented regardless but if it is your buyer's agent you can request his/her manager/broker represent you or the seller. 

Dual agency is not always bad.  I just closed on a transaction where I was the dual agent and I am telling you it would not have held together if I were not.

I just referred a friend to a good agent in that area to find a 2nd home.  If you need a recommendation, just let me know.  I would be willing to help.

Good luck, hope this helps.  Oh, I can e-mail you a document that explains the home buying process step by step if you need.
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May 01 2011
 

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