Benefits of a buying agent

Due to rising sale prices and changes in the housing market, it’s easy to feel rushed or pressured when buying a home. However, purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions of your life. A buying agent knows everything about the housing market and avoids hasty decisions. They ensure that you find the home that best suits you. At IMMO Arie van der Lee, we recommend using a buying agent. In this article, we’ll explain the roles and benefits of a buying agent.

What is a buying agent?

If you’re reading this article, you’re probably looking for a new home. When planning to buy a property, you can either search for and purchase a home on your own or choose to hire a buying agent to guide you through the process and handle many of the tasks.

While you can certainly attend viewings by yourself—since it’s important to experience a house firsthand—having a buying agent by your side can be extremely helpful. A buying agent doesn’t just highlight the advantages of a property but also points out defects or issues you might not have noticed. Since our buying agents are highly knowledgeable and handle viewings daily, it’s a smart decision to take one along for a viewing.

What’s the difference between a selling agent and a buying agent?

If you’re selling your home, you’re likely to use a selling agent. At IMMO Arie van der Lee, our agents can serve as both buying and selling agents, depending on your situation. Most people hire a selling agent when selling a home because they possess greater knowledge and market insight. A selling agent knows exactly how the sale process works, from start to finish, and will guide you through it.

A selling agent makes the selling process much faster and easier, and the same applies to a buying agent when purchasing a home. The key difference is that a buying agent assists the buyer, while a selling agent assists the seller. With a buying agent, you have someone who is on your side. Selling agents are primarily concerned with selling the property, which can put pressure on the buyer. A buying agent helps you navigate the process without stress.

What does a buying agent help with?

Buying a home is a rare occurrence, so it’s difficult to think of everything on your own. That’s why hiring an expert is smart. The process requires time, paperwork, and energy. A buying agent can help in several ways, such as negotiating the purchase price—especially useful if you’re not a strong negotiator. While you can handle negotiations on your own, having advice from someone who does it daily is invaluable.

When it’s time to buy a home, there’s a purchase contract involved. Your buying agent provides a second set of eyes to check for any issues, including the fine print. After the purchase contract, the notary will draft a deed of transfer, which the buying agent will also review.

Tasks of a buying agent:

Benefits of a buying agent:

Which buying agent is right for me?

When looking for a good buying agent, it’s essential to check if they are a certified agent. How long have they been a buying agent? Ask about their experience in both selling and buying homes. Personal recommendations from friends or family can also be helpful. What have others experienced with a buying agent?

The next step is contacting and meeting with a buying agent. It’s best to schedule an appointment and visit them in person. This will help you see if there’s a good connection between you and the agent. Trust your instincts—does this agent feel right for you? Your first impression is important.

During the initial meeting, ask about the agent’s working methods. If you’re comfortable with their approach and feel confident in their expertise, you’ve likely found the right agent. Take your time to make this decision; buying a home is a significant commitment.

Traditional vs. online buying agents

A modern option is online buying agents. An online buying agent operates primarily online or over the phone, with less personal interaction. The key difference between traditional and online agents is the lack of face-to-face contact with an online agent. Online agents do not accompany you to viewings.

While online agents are easily accessible and don’t require appointments, you might speak to a different expert each time. Most online buying agents operate on a national level, rather than being familiar with specific local markets.

Traditional buying agents are usually based in the area where you’re planning to live. They often work as both buying and selling agents. A traditional agent will attend viewings with you and can immediately offer advice on potential issues you might not notice. They also actively search for a home that suits your needs.

What does a buying agent cost?

The fees for a buying agent vary. Some charge a fixed fee, typically ranging between €1,000 and €5,000. These agents will receive payment regardless of the home’s price and won’t necessarily seek out the most expensive homes. Other agents work on a percentage of the final purchase price, meaning the more expensive the home, the higher the fee. Some agents work on a percentage of the negotiated price reduction, meaning they earn more if they secure a lower price.

Would you like advice from one of our buying agents? Contact us today!