The journey of buying a home can be complex and full of decisions. To make it easier and empower buyers to select the best agent for their needs, the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has released a new resource titled Ten Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent. This guide offers essential questions for buyers to ask potential agents, ensuring that the chosen agent aligns with their specific goals and priorities.
A Tool to Help Buyers Feel Confident
Choosing an agent is one of the first steps in the homebuying process, and it sets the tone for a buyer’s experience. The right agent doesn’t just guide the buyer but advocates for their best interests. NAR's guide aims to provide buyers with the knowledge to ask the right questions, evaluate potential agents, and make a confident, informed choice.
Some of the suggested questions include:
- What types of services can you provide me? Knowing the range of services an agent offers can help buyers assess how well the agent’s approach fits their needs.
- Can you tell me about your approach to scouting properties? This question helps buyers understand how an agent conducts property searches, which can be crucial for those with specific needs or timelines.
- What will be included in our written buyer agreement? Clarity on contractual terms can prevent misunderstandings and ensure transparency.
These questions serve as an essential framework, promoting a balanced relationship between the buyer and the agent. Beyond this, the guide emphasizes the ethical standards Realtors must uphold, underscoring the commitment to serving clients' best interests.
A Part of NAR’s Series to Educate Consumers
The Ten Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent guide is the 11th installment in NAR’s Consumer Guide series. Developed in response to recent industry changes that took effect in August 2023, these guides are designed to educate and assist buyers and sellers at every stage of the process. Available in both English and Spanish, this series addresses various aspects of buying and selling, including:
- Written Buyer Agreements: Outlines recent practice changes and the purpose behind a buyer agreement, ensuring transparency.
- Realtors’ Code of Ethics: A guide detailing Realtors' duty to prioritize client interests, reinforcing the trust between buyers and their agents.
- Open Houses and Agreements: Clarifies when a written buyer agreement is necessary and what buyers should consider during open house visits.
- Resources for Veterans: Highlights financial and support options available specifically for veterans.
These resources cover critical components of real estate, helping clients feel well-informed.
Accessing the Full Series of Guides
All guides are freely accessible on NAR’s website, facts.Realtor, making it easy for buyers and sellers to educate themselves on the process. From understanding multiple listing services (MLS) to the nuances of negotiating written buyer agreements, each guide is tailored to a specific aspect of real estate.
A Step Toward a Transparent Real Estate Industry
For those entering the real estate market, NAR's Ten Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent is a valuable tool. It empowers buyers with the questions and insights they need to find an agent who truly prioritizes their goals and interests. By promoting transparency and education, NAR continues to support a fair and client-centered real estate experience, making the process smoother and more accessible for all.
