How to pick the right real estate agent:

When you’re ready to buy a house, there are, literally, thousands of options when choosing a buyer’s agent.. You definitely need one (see the section below as to why), but how do you choose the right one? All of us (agents) have access to the same market data, the same MLS, the same tools – so how do you choose a buyer’s agent? Well, most of the time they choose you. You input your interest (like on my forms on this site) and then the agent responds to you and offers to assist, and you go from there. There’s nothing wrong with this, as long as you’re comfortable that you’ve got the right buyer’s agent! But you can, and should, proactively shop around. Ensure that the agent or brokerage has good experience, strong business acumen, and the proper motivation (you can tell when someone actually cares or is just hungry for commission). On the buy-side, it’s critical you have someone that will guide your decision making based on their ability/acumen, and will fight for you because they actually care about your outcome.

Why you need a buyer’s agent:

Here are a few reasons it’s critical that you engage with the right KC Metro Agent when looking to buy a house:

• Agents have your best interest at heart. We are bound by the code of ethics and owe you (when under contract) fiduciary duties of: loyalty, obedience, confidentiality, disclosure, accounting, and reasonable care
• We have access to the local MLS, all relevant documents pertaining to homes you may be interested in viewing/purchasing
• We have access to large networks of experienced agents, brokers, and industry experts that will help ensure you have a great experience when you buy a house
• Realtors have access to homes available on the MLS for showing, so you can get in the door to the properties you are most interested in!
  • A note on this: some people think they can just call the listing agent and deal with them, while remaining unrepresented by a buyer’s agent. That is possible, but the listing agent owes the above fiduciary duties to the seller – not to you…. You are not represented nor are your best interests, so be cautious in all that you say/do (they should disclose these things at the time).
• Buyer’s agents are experienced at viewing home values and recommending the right offer price. We understand current market trends and values, which can help you submit the most competitive offer that is right FOR YOU!

Why you should choose me:

• Serving others is my passion: I’ve always had a strong desire to serve others, see them succeed, and make them happy. It’s why I’ve gotten into this business: to make a direct, positive impact on the lives of those in my community
• Strong ethical foundation: it’s critical that we do right by others at all times. Treating others ethically, with respect, dignity, and humility is foundational to me as a person. It is the foundation of a healthy society.
• Negotiable Commission: did I just show you one house, and you got under contract and closed? Great – I may not deserve a 3% commission. Commissions are ALWAYS negotiable with realtors (remember that, even if you go with someone else). I have many options for compensation, we can discuss what is right and fair for you.
  • But doesn’t the seller pay commissions? Believe it or not, we hear that all the time. Some folks don’t think about it, but the seller is paying commissions out of the proceeds you’re paying to them. They plan on paying the buyer’s agent a 3% commission, it’s built into the price. SO – if your buyer’s agent is willing to accept less, this is often a great negotiation point for reducing the sale price of the home (saving YOU money)
• Open and Honest: concerned that we won’t provide the same great service you’re being offered by another agent? Just reach out and we can discuss. I will let you know if I can or cannot match their offering, and/or do it even better!