Serving our buyer clients

Last month, we discussed real estate commissions and how they are structured. So what are you getting for your money? Let’s look at it from the buyer’s perspective. 

While it’s currently common practice for the listing broker to offer a cooperating broker fee which covers our services, there could be times when that is not offered and where you would pay for our services. We discuss this scenario with buyers at our initial meeting and strategize a plan that works for their situation.

First off, every real estate transaction is unique and when you work with McSharry and Associates you get our combined 39 years of experience working exclusively on your behalf, helping you navigate the process from start to finish. We work full time to find your next home, offering advice, judgement and counsel tailored to your stated goals.

This includes

1. Educating you on the process of buying a home. While it’s not rocket science, there are a lot of steps in the process and we are with you every step of the way. We are easily accessible to answer any questions and have checklists for every stage of the process. There is no question too small and if we don’t know the answer, we will do the necessary research to get it for you.

1. Searching for available homes. At our first meeting, we will ask you detailed questions about your real estate goals, your lifestyle, preferences and needs. Next we set you up to receive automated listings from the multiple listing service so that you are notified instantly when a new home that matches your search criteria comes on the market. We are big fans of showing you as many homes as you need to make an informed decision. Even when we tour a home that’s not the right fit, that’s not a wasted trip as you learn a little bit more about the market and about your preferences each time we go out. 

1. Providing constructive feedback on potential properties. We aren’t the sort of Realtors who open the door and let you wander through the home alone. We will climb into attics and look in basement corners looking for any red flags. As we walk through a home, we will point out the pros and cons that we notice and will help you decide if the condition and layout are suitable for your needs.

1. Performing in-depth research on properties of interest. When you find a house you like, we will send you a market analysis to help you determine what the home is worth to you. If you have any questions about the property, we will get you the answers.

1. Negotiating on your behalf. Depending on the situation, we will guide you on offer strategy. There’s a big difference between making an offer on a house that is brand new on the market and one that’s been listed for several weeks and has no other interest. We will help you put your best foot forward while also ensuring that you don’t stretch beyond your comfort zone. The last thing we want is for our buyers to regret a home purchase. 

1. Providing suggestions for attorneys, inspectors, banks, etc. We have been doing this a long time and have a resource list of service providers should you want a recommendation. We don’t make any money off these referrals and we don’t care who you use, as long as it’s someone who has a good reputation and knows our market well.

1. Assisting you in navigating the process from contract to closing. While the home search can take some time and be stressful, the process isn’t over once you are under contract. We make sure that you are supported throughout the process and will assist you in scheduling the inspection, negotiating any necessary structural credits, ensuring the appraisal occurs, reminding you about utility transfers, home owner’s insurance, securing movers, etc. We will attend the final walk through to confirm that the house is as expected and that everything is functional.

Buying a home is quite a process and you will enjoy the experience a lot more if you have dedicated professionals working with you to get you the best possible price and terms on your new home. Thinking about buying a home soon? Let’s chat!

Photo credit: iStock.com/Kar-Tr