Jessica Beganski

It depends. If you are the kind of person who is organized, can do research, has the time to represent yourself (handle showings, answer questions, etc), and has bought and sold real estate before, then you can definitely do it. If however, you're in a hurry, aren't an experienced home seller, don't have the time to handle buyers and agents questions and showings, and don't have the time or experience to do your own market research, then you may want to consider an agent.

Selling your home without an agent doesn't mean you'll save money - buyers who buy FSBO expect a discount, and you're spending a lot of your own time and money on advertising, research, communicating with buyers and agents etc. You're also likely to have to pay a buyer's agent fee. - Sun May 3 2009, 09:56

According to the property records, they are $3,864. DId you have any other questions about the property? - Sat Apr 18 2009, 12:08

Does she still want to purchase the home? In any case, I suggest you get a copy of the contract she signed (she should have one) and review it with her. Then, I suggest that she hire an attorney to help her review the contract she signed so she understands what her obligations are and what recourse she has. If you need a real estate atty in West Hartford, you can contact me and I'll pass along a name to you. - Thu Mar 12 2009, 12:56

I think what agents mean by that is that you, as the buyer, aren't paying out of pocket and aren't paying the fee directly to the agent.

Most homes on the market are sold using agents so the fee is built into the market. Just because a home is for slae by owner, doesn't mean you get a price reduction - the seller makes the money.

And just because you work with the listing agent, doesn't mean you get a huge price reduction (50% of the total commission). The listing agent has an agreement with the seller for a certain commission and perhaps they'll give you some sort of a deal but what you miss out on is all the advice, the guidance and the experience of a real buyers agent which can ultimately cost you more than what you saved. - Thu Feb 19 2009, 13:24

Your own buyer's agent will:
- research the home for you (town records)
- research comparable properties (what has sold, what is selling) and if the price you're paying is reasonable
- will attend the inspection with you and help you to negotiate repair items
- bring to your attention defects in the property but also point out the benefits
- refer you to competent contractors and other service providers
- manage the purchase for you by making sure everything is done on time and will guide the process along
- attend the closing with you to make sure everything goes smoothly
- be there after the sale to make sure everything is to your satisfaction

The listing agent's job is to get the house sold for the most amount of money so they aren't going to do anything to help you get a better deal.

Yes, a buyers agent is technically free because you don't pay for their service out of pocket. But the agent commission is a factor in the sales price so ultimately, a buyer does pay.

There really is no reason not to hire your own agent - why pay for a service that you don't get. - Thu Feb 19 2009, 12:13