Your Realtor
Purchasing real estate is typically one of the largest purchases that anyone makes in their lifetime. There aren't too many items you will ever purchase that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars! So when you consider the fact that it costs you nothing to have a Realtor represent you in your purchase, you can wonder why anyone would consider not using one. Compensation paid to the buyers' agent comes from the commission that is paid to the listing agent by the seller, the buyer pays no commission to any agent. Even if you've bought several properties already and are familiar with the process, it still doesn't make sense not to have professional representation, especially.
The job of your Realtor when representing you is to facilitate the entire process, from:
-Explaining the entire process and answering any and all questions along the way
-Helping you to obtain financing if needed
-Assistance with identifying potential homes to purchase
-Writing contracts, negotating on your behalf to get you the best price and terms possible
-Arranging property inspections and professionally negotiating credits when items of concen come up
-Coordinating Escrow and Title Services
These are the main functions, but you will find that along the way your Realtor will perform many other tasks as needed. My duty to my clients is to put their interests above all others, even my own. This is known as a "fiduciary" responsibility, and it's the core of the relationship between the buyer and the agent. I will never push you toward any particular property, my job is to show you homes until you find the home that you see yourself being comfortable in.