House Hunting: Things to know that the real estate agent won't tell you

Articles on Home | Topics: home, house

by Dana Kirby

House Hunting: Things to know that the real estate agent won't tell you

Purchasing a house can be an exhilarating experience for everyone in the family. Many different options are open in finding a home. If you choose to have the assistance of an agent, there are things to be aware of. The real estate agents are professional, however they may leave vital information out of the conversations. There are some imperative factors that you must know in order to make wise decisions.

The most important thing to remember about a real estate agent is they are first and foremost an over glorified salesperson. Their goal is to sell a house. They will go through all the hype trying to make the buyer think the best about the worse. Now not all agents are liars. However, keep in mind the point of roles. They are selling and you are buying. Be sure not to forget this major advantage. After all, you might believe you must have an agent. This is not the case. The negotiator is just that, a negotiator. Their primary objectives is buying and selling. When they work they are mostly after the commission.

The real estate agent may not explain to the consumer the problems associated with the property. If the dwelling has ants, termites or any other pest problems it is likely they will not be straightforward with them. Other issues to be aware of are plumbing, water damage or electrical problems. The agent you choose may hold this information back. It is true that they give you a list of house investigators. This is so the purchaser can have the house checked out. However, keep in mind the list is coming from the person who wants to sell the home. Some examiners will receive kickbacks from the real estate agent so they can obtain more business. There are a few representatives who know just about as much of the house issues as you do. Which case in point is, nothing.

Quote of the Day

Oh come home soon, I write to her.
Go screw yourself, is her answer.
Now what is that, for Christian word?
I hope she feeds on dried goose turd.

—Robert Creeley (b. 1926)

Real estate agents will not let you know of properties where they will not receive any commission. Even though, you pay for their services. The properties can include the price range, correct location, and other criteria that you've specified. The agent may skip over houses even if they are perfect since they will not profit off of the deal. This is a great reason to do some checking on your own, even if you do have an agent working for you. Then as the buyer, you will know and understand if the agent is really working as hard as they can to help you find that perfect house.

Be cautious of brokers who try to raise the price. Explain to the agent that you can only spend a certain amount of money and stick with that. An agent may decide to show you homes a little higher than the max you are willing to spend. The agent may try to explain that there are no houses in the price range you have stated, which is usually untrue. Or else, they give details on how this particular residence is only a certain dollar figure more. Usually this is not too much extra. Remember, they would like you to pay out more cash so they can increase their commission. This technique can be very subtle. Some people may not even notice they are attempting this method.

Agents may tell you that a certain property is will be a great investment for the future. An agent may even state that the land will double in five or ten years. This may or may not be true. Some real estate is sure to increase in value while others will not. However, a broker is not one to ask this information from. They are not experienced in this kind of detail. The agent is, again, trying to sell. Do not take any advice the real estate person is claiming to be true as face value. If you want to know if something they have said is true or untrue you must explore this knowledge yourself.

Using a real estate agent is everyone's choice. There are some excellent agents that are ready to help. For the most part, beware of the ones who just want the money. Be wary of the run-around. Make very sure the agent will return phone calls or e-mails. Buying a house is a very big step. Review all the facts and figures before taking the plunge.

We strive to provide only relevant articles on our website. If there is a specific home-related topic that you would like us to cover, please contact us here.

Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "House Hunting: Things to know that the real estate agent won't tell you" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by FamilyBabyKids.com.

Inexpensive Wedding Gifts
By Ian English
A wedding gift does not have to be expensive to be well received and appreciated by the couple. While the extravagance of some weddings may compel their guests to purchase pricey gifts, it is not necessary to do so....

Drawing on Friends for Self Confidence
By Zachary Gordon
Drawing on Friends for Self Confidence The very act of having friends can inspire confidence. You're someone who is worth being around....

Are We There Yet? A Travel Guide for Parents
By Oswaldo Park
Are We There Yet? A Travel Guide for Parents Family vacations can be one of the best ways to make memories that will last you and your kids a lifetime. But no matter how long you are staying at your chosen destination, when traveling with children the longest part of the trip can be your journey there....