Things Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs to Know About Working With a Real Estate Agent

When you’re buying a home, working with a real estate agent can be an invaluable resource. But if it’s your first time working with an agent, you might have questions about the process.

So what, exactly, do you need to know?

A recent video from realtor.com outlined the must-know information about working with a real estate agent first-time buyers should know, including:

• Working with a buyer’s agent doesn’t cost you anything out-of-pocket. Real estate agents get paid through a commission. But generally, agent commissions are paid for by the seller—so, as a buyer, you don’t have to actually pay to work with an agent. In other words, you have nothing to lose by working with an agent on your home search and everything to gain—so you should definitely consider working with a professional.
• Your network is a great way to find an agent. There are a lot of different ways to find a real estate agent. But one of the best is tapping into your network. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues if they have an agent they would recommend; if they had a great experience working with a real estate agent, chances are, you will, too.
• The more information you give your agent, the better. When you’re working with an agent, the more specifics you can give them about what you’re looking for, the easier it will be to find you the right kinds of properties—so give them as much information as possible. This includes information like ideal location, size, and number of bedrooms, as well as a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal breakers.