Why work with a buyers agent?

A buyers agent works exclusively for the buyer, not the seller (there are some instances where they may act for both, but this is unusual and will be disclosed and agreed upon by all parties). Your buyers agent is an advocate for you during the process of buying real estate they are there to help you in a number of ways detailed below.

WHY WORK WITH A BUYER’S AGENT?
Finding the Right Property
- Share knowledge of public listings as well as those being marketed quietly/privately.
- Send out alerts to Buyer regarding new listings, and changes in price.
- Advise on different areas of the island, and the pros and cons, specifically for Buyer’s needs.
- Schedule showings, preview properties, provide face time/video of potential homes.
- Point out unnoticed features/faults and advantages of a property.
- Understand Buyer’s wish list.
- Share local knowledge of towns/zoning/market.
- Support with boots on the ground when Buyers are long-distance.
- Relationship building - This can be a multi-year process.

Representation – Educating and Protecting the Buyer
- Dedicated representation of Buyer’s interest including price, timeline, and other factors. Listing agents are paid to
represent the Seller’s interest and do not represent the Buyer.
- Expert knowledge of MA real estate process, and the nuances of Martha’s Vineyard properties and each town on
the island.
- Expert support for a significant purchase that is deserving of dedicated and focused advocacy.

Negotiation – Sales Price and Other terms
- Knowledge of pricing, comparable sales.
- Knowledge of real estate market and trends, sharing data and market reports.
- Access to resources for analyzing property and strategizing offer.
- Know what issues to include in an offer to protect the Buyer’s interest (concerns/needs/timeline).
- Draft and negotiate an offer to protect the Buyer’s interests – regarding price and other terms.
Guidance
- Explain and guide the Buyer through all the steps - from looking at properties to offer to closing.
- Navigate Buyer through due diligence, arrange inspections, and other activities indicated by the contingencies in
the offer.
- Contact and be present with contractors, engineers, and other service specialists in a timely manner.
- Ensure the property is ready to close.

Support and Local Resources/Relationships
- Access to trusted local inspectors, contractors, architects, engineers, attorneys, mold and radon remediation,
mortgage specialists, service specialists, etc.
- Professional relationship with other Brokers to help transactions move smoothly and efficiently.
- Experience with the review and approval process of town boards and committees.

Buyers agents are licensed professionals who receive a compensation for the work they do for their clients and this should be discussed before you start to work with your buyer agent or broker.  You will be asked to sign a buyers agreement before you view property with your agent and you will also receive a copy of the MA Agency Disclosure form which explains your relationship to each other. It is explained in more detail on our website here.

BOTTOM LINE: A Buyer’s Agent will save you time, money, and stress.
But not all Buyer’s Agents are equal. Ask your Tea Lane agent about their strengths in representing you.