Costly Misconceptions For Buyers

There are two sides in a real estate transaction: seller side and buyer side. The listing agent represents the seller and the buyers agent represents the buyer. Duh - why am I writing about this? Well, twice this week I ran into situations of buyers who are completely unaware a buyers agent actually exists and at a cost FREE to the buyer. Well, this is how real estate works (at least in SC & most of the US), peeps. The sellers hire the brokerage to list their home. When the listing agent advertises the property for sale and lists it in MLS they advertise a certain percentage of the transaction to be split with the buyers agent in reward for bringing forth the buyer. After all, wouldn't you want your best interest represented? 

The biggest hurdle with this process is the general public not understanding that a buyers agent is for their benefit. After all, a buyers agent owes their client-level six fiduciary services: confidentiality, accounting, disclosure, obedience, loyalty, reasonable care & skill. It has come to my attention that many buyers are under the assumption that having a buyers agent would be on their dime when that's just not the case. I completely understand and sympathize with all buyers. Buying a home can be a costly time with inspections, appraisal, moving fees, etc., Having an agent is about the only "free" thing, but it IS the most valuable and priceless - priceless as described in those Mastercard commercials (see below).

Long story short, if you are in the market to buy a home, please obtain an agent. If you are in the Columbia/Lexington/Irmo area, obtain me if you wish - I would be more than happy to assist. This is the LARGEST investment of your life, why wouldn't you invest in your future wisely? 

If you are looking to buy, contact me at your easiest resource, email - realtorlaurengilstrap@gmail.com, text/call - 803.409.9667, or send a raven if need be - 1711 Gervais Street! 

-Lauren