There are vast differences between the ranges of services a licensed real estate agent can legally offer to a buyer.

It is important to note: Just because a realtor offers to show you some properties or offers to "work with you" in finding the right home, it does not qualify them as your agent, friend, nor ally in this process! 

 

There is a world of difference between working with an agent than retaining one who will pledge to work exclusively for you. 

 

EXCLUSIVE BUYER’S AGENT (EBA)
Works for a real estate brokerage that does not sell properties thereby works solely on the behalf of buyers. Exclusive buyer agents are the only agents who can legally guarantee full and uncompromising representation to their buyer clients.

Duties include: locating the right home for the buyer; negotiating on buyers' behalf for best price and terms; maintaining buyer's confidentiality, and disclosing all known information about the seller and the home to the buyer. 

 

The following definitions will help you to decipher who the players are in the world of real estate:

BUYER’S AGENT
A buyer’s agent is an agent retained by the buyer to represent the buyer's interests. However many typically work for a brokerage that also actively sells/lists properties. Buyer representation by this agent requires full consent by all parties prior to the commencement of any and all activities.  Legally, in this instance the buyer is, indeed, the agent's "client" and sellers are "customers", but potential conflicts of interest abound. There is nothing preventing this agent from steering the buyer into purchasing homes listed within their brokerage's inventory. This is why an exclusive buyer’s agency is preferred by buyers.

SELLER'S AGENT
Also known as "listing agent". Typically, this is the agent whose name is on the "For Sale" sign and is legally obligated to represent the seller's interests only. Their duty is to get the highest price and best terms for the seller, maintain seller's confidentiality and disclose all known information about prospective buyers. Legally, the seller is this agent's "client", buyers are merely "customers". 

DUAL AGENT
Whenever the agents for the seller and the buyer work for the same real estate company, or broker, they BOTH become dual agents. Neither the buyer nor seller is fully represented. 

DESIGNATED AGENCY
Designated agency is a form of dual agency. Compare this to an attorney representing both sides in the same court case - when the attorney works with both sides he is conducting "mediation" - helping the parties reach their own agreements, but not going to bat for either one. 

 

Total Real Estate's Services

 

Initial Consultation – We find out your wants and needs regarding the search for your new home. Giving us an opportunity to get to know each other and come to a mutual agreement to work together.

Client Profile – Create MLS and FSBO property lists that matches your criteria with daily e-mail updates.

Showings - Accompany you to homes that are currently on the market. 

Property Research - Perform research on how long a property has been on the market, conduct a property value study, or prepare a CMA (comparative market analysis) to help you decide the amount of the initial offer. 
 

Offers - Prepare and present an offer for a property once you have found the home you want to purchase. 
 

Negotiations - On your behalf, we will negotiate adjustments to the terms of the sale after inspections and/or bank appraisals. 
 

Inspections - Schedule inspections [home, wood destroying insects (termite), radon, water quality, etc.] for the property. 
 

Manage Dates - Make sure all deadlines are met and keep track of important dates such as home inspection deadlines, financing, etc. and file for any extensions that may be necessary during the entire process. 
 

Closing Day - Schedule and accompany you in a final walk-through to inspect the property prior to closing. 
 

Professional Referrals - If needed, we can refer you to reputable local lenders, attorneys, inspectors, etc. that you will need on your side during the home buying process. 
 

Representation - As Exclusive Buyer's Agents, we will represent YOU in all aspects of the home buying process.  Our mission is to give you a worry free home buying experience.