Your Buyer's Agent will most likely cost you nothing. The seller generally pays all brokers' fees, including the fee of the agent who works for you, the buyer.

 
2. Pick Your Lender

If you intend to apply for a mortgage, your Buyer's Agent can help you choose the right lender for your needs. Your lender will guide you through the pre-approval process to determine how much money you can borrow.

 
3. Search for Homes

A good real estate search will (a) give you several easy ways to search, (b) show you details and photos and (c) tell you addresses so you can drive by the properties. That's what you will find at the North Quabbin Region's Best Real Estate Search and our new mobile search.

After an easy signup, you can save your searches and receive email notifications when new listings match the search criteria you saved.

 
4. Evaluate the Homes You Find

If you have questions about a listing, your Buyer's Agent will get answers for you. Your Buyer's Agent will set up appointments for you to visit homes that interest you. During your visit, your Buyer's Agent will be there with you to help you size up what you see.

Always have your Buyer's Agent ask your questions and set up your appointments for you. Never call the listing agent on your own.

 
5. Negotiate Your Deal

When you find a home to buy, your Buyer's Agent will help you decide what price and conditions to put in your offer and help you respond to the seller's counter-offer. Throughout the negotiating process, your Buyer's Agent is your guide by your side.

To be binding, an accepted offer must be in writing and signed by all parties. Your Buyer's Agent will prepare and revise your offer for you.

 
6. Get a Home Inspection

Your offer should reserve your right to obtain your own inspection. Get it. Even if your uncle is a wonderful carpenter, let him off the hook by hiring a professional home inspector to do the job. Your Buyer's Agent can help you find a good one.

Expect minor problems. No house is perfect. But if your inspection discloses major issues, your Buyer's Agent will help you decide whether to request repairs, re-negotiate the deal or walk away.

 
7. Complete Your Purchase

As the days count down to your closing date, life gets hectic. That's why your Buyer's Agent will be there to guide you through all the details until you own your new home.

Leave some time to walk through your new home with your Buyer's Agent just before the closing to make sure everything is as you expect it to be.