Why use an agent to buy a home?

When you start the process of buying a new home, it is important to determine the type of representation you want to pursue. There are basically three options:

No Representation
Dual Agency
Buyer's Agency

NO REPRESENTATION:
When individuals chose to contact listing agents to inquire about prospective purchases, rather using a buyers agent, they are often unaware that in many instances, the real estate agent showing them property is not necessarily representing their best interests.

Listing agents are hired to represent the sellers, and are legally obligated to pass ANY information along to the sellers which you might provide to them...information which could adversely impact your ability to negotiate a good deal.

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DUAL AGENCY:
If you choose to write an offer with the listing agent, you will be asked to enter into an agreement called "dual agency" representation. Dual agency means that the agent you are working with is "committed" to being neutral, and represents both sides equally. This arrangement is legal, but there are some things to consider. When you are negotiating a contract, you cannot be sure that the agent is working solely on your behalf.

The Bob Toews Team has a Buyer's Agent, who only represents buyers, and a Listing Agent who only represents Sellers. This effectively keeps your interests priority in the negotiation process.

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BUYERS AGENCY
Buyers agents are full time professional Real Estate Agents. They are educated in the legal aspects of Real Estate Practice and licensed by the Real Estate Council of British Columbia to provide Real Estate Services. They earn their living by serving the needs of homebuyers and sellers with integrity.

Buyer's agent's are not paid a traditional salary. They work entirely on commission, which they receive only if they initiate and complete a transaction for you. Our Buyer's agent's are compensated only when all of your needs have been satisfied and you take ownership of your new home. All of the services provided on your behalf are uncompensated unless you purchase a home through us. Real Estate commissions traditionally are paid from the seller's proceeds, not out of your pocket. Essentially Buyer Representation is a service FREE to you which protects your interests.

Your Agent should represent you professionally and competently.Our Buyer's Agents will not only help you find a home, but will provide you with information on comparable homes recently sold in the neighborhood so you know whether the home you are purchasing is a good value or not. Our Buyer's Agents can also help you obtain valuable information regarding schools, test scores, tax rates, churches, temples, shopping, and recreation opportunities. Best of all, these services are FREE of charge to you, as the commission is paid by the seller's Agent regardless of who he or she is representing

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The Crux of the Matter
Most real estate transactions go fine, but almost every one has a challenge or two.These challenges are often routine, but sometimes not.Because the agent has divided loyalties, one side or another may doubt where those loyalties truly lie.Mistrust develops.This can take a small problem and blow it way out of proportion.At that point it becomes a crisis.

Having an agent on your side as your advocate removes the mistrust and helps keep things on an even keel.If a challenge develops, you know where your agent stands.