subject: Finding the Right Real Estate Agent in Dublin, California [print this page] Finding the Right Real Estate Agent in Dublin, California
"Honey, I think it is the right time we should think about purchasing a home," my husband said as I was waking up one Thursday morning. "Okay," I responded, "where do we start?" "First we have to find a real estate agent and then decide where we want to look." his answer came. "Let me ask my friend, Elaine, they just bought a new home in Dublin." I answered with heightened excitement. Now came the task of calling Elaine and asking for a referral to her real estate agent and the search was on. Not believing what had just transpired I quickly dressed and was ready to start my day and tackle the task set before me. Elaine was called and recommended Jameel Batshon in Dublin. Curiosity got the best of my intellect and wanted to know what the difference in agents was and what made one better than another.
Finding the perfect real estate agent could be the first step to finding the perfect home. We were first-time home buyers that had just moved to the Tri-Valley and could use professional help to show us around, explain the process and negotiate the best deal. It's easier to trust real estate brokers who don't split their time working for buyers and sellers because we are less likely to be victimized by a conflict of interest. "A buyer's agent is legally bound to represent the buyer's interest -- they work only for us, the buyer," says Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, author of "Your First Home: The Smart Way to Get It and Keep It." Though that doesn't guarantee we've found a great agent, but an Accredited Buyer Representative has additional training on how to negotiate on a buyer's behalf and must have completed at least five transactions serving solely as a buyer's agent. Watch out for buyer's agents who claim their services are free. No one works for free. What they really mean is that they'll split the standard real estate commission, 6% in most states, with the selling agent.
Most buyer's agents will ask a contract be signed spelling out how they'll be paid and what they'll do on your behalf. This is good, because it legally obligates them to protect the buyer and their interests - not those of the seller. Some agents may require a $250 to $500 retainer to begin work. Just make sure there is an open agreement says it will be refunded if you buy a home. Jameel doesn't charge a fee Elaine said.
