WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM YOUR BUYER'S REPRESENTATIVE?

So you've entered into a formal relationship with a buyer's representative. What can and should you expect?

First, your buyer's representative should ask specific questions and what you're looking for and do a complete search of the market, electronically, using her MLS database. Results can be delivered efficiently by email. She should also set up an automatic, ongoing method for you to be notified when new listings matching your criteria come on the market. Again, this is most readily accomplished by email. You should let your representative know as your criteria change (and they often will as you get to know the market) so she can modify your search parameters.

Your buyer's representative will set up showings of the houses you want to see. It's most efficient for everyone if you see three or four homes in a row, at least initially, so she can gauge your reaction and get a better idea what you're looking for. Unless you're in a real crunch for time, it's not normally wise to see upwards of five houses in a row. Everyone gets worn out, and the houses will start to blend together.

Your buyer's representative should point you toward detailed information on the houses you're interested in. She should advise you of the logistics of writing an offer, including the intricacies of financing, as you zero in on a property that you like. And of course she'll write your offer, counseling you on the realities of the market, strategies for negotiation, and clauses that will address matters of importance to you. From there she'll guide you through the escrow period (from accepted offer through closing). She gets paid if and when the transaction closes, usually through a commission split offered by the listing Realtor through the Multiple Listing Service agreement.