04-16-2009, 03:52 PM
I'm sure there are some great agents who are worth their pay, but from what I've seen, the Vast majority are like used car salespeople, but much less informed about what they're selling.
The agents are always telling everyone that "buyers don't like to talk to the owners", that somehow an intermediary is required for even viewing a house. But in fact, the only way a buyer can find out anything about a property (other than what's already written on the disclosure statement, and before paying for an inspection) is asking the only person involved who knows Anything about it- the owner.
And just forget about relying on Any agent's guidance for any possible contract complexity, a contract or RE lawyer is for that, and they charge much less, represent you at the close if needed (which can sometimes prove to be a prudent move) and actually Are looking out for your best interests, not whether you go through w/the purchase or the size of their commission.
The agents are always telling everyone that "buyers don't like to talk to the owners", that somehow an intermediary is required for even viewing a house. But in fact, the only way a buyer can find out anything about a property (other than what's already written on the disclosure statement, and before paying for an inspection) is asking the only person involved who knows Anything about it- the owner.
And just forget about relying on Any agent's guidance for any possible contract complexity, a contract or RE lawyer is for that, and they charge much less, represent you at the close if needed (which can sometimes prove to be a prudent move) and actually Are looking out for your best interests, not whether you go through w/the purchase or the size of their commission.