John, Trulia members attempt to provide the best information to consumers based upon information in their questions. If there are other topics or questions you would like to ask about Buyer's Agency I suggest responding to your own question. You still remain anonymous and we usually check to be notified of new remarks. You also have the option of removing your question, which will stop further emails

I wish you a quick and easy purchase. I've been to Ludington several times over the past 30 years and have watched the area grow (good and bad).

Hi John,
My name is Corry Organ, I am the Broker/Owner of Coldwell Banker Wonderland. I would suggest making sure that you find an agent who has thier ABR designation. ABR stands for accredited buyers representative.
You should interview three agents and pick an agent who you are most comfortable with.
Please feel free to call me, I would be very happy to help you find a home that meets all your needs.
Respectfully,
Corry Organ, ABR
Owner/Broker
Coldwell Banker Wonderland
Ludington, MI 49431
231-845-0644
231-794-9944
corry.organ@coldwellbaker.com

Hi John!

I am located in the Manistee area, just north of Ludington. It is common up here for most agents to work for as a subagent of the seller; you are wise to seek out and request a Buyer's Agent. Please feel free to give me a call or email so we can talk about what you are looking for!

Meagan Kempf
Coldwell Banker ALM
Manistee, MI
231-723-5310 http://www.MeaganKempf.com

John, There are a few real estate professionals from the Ludington area on Trulia. http://www.trulia.com/real-estate-community/Ludington-22823/… You could look and see if any have completed their profiles.

I agree, a Buyer's Agent would be a good choice. You do understand that any real estate professional can become your Buyer's Agent all it takes is signing a contract (see sample on the website below) and for the home not to be their listing. Once an agent has signed a Buyer's Agency agreement they are required by law to work for the home buyer.

I would agree, unless you are using a website with Internet Data Exchange (IDX) then you may not see the homes you want to see in your search. Try this website http://mirealtors.com/consumers.html to search for an agent in your area and to search for homes (listings).

A referral from another agent may be an option, but I suggest interviewing at least 3 agents and inquiring about their Minimum Level of Service (which is a new law taking effect July 1, 2008).

If you need any assistance feel free to contact me. Emails go directly to my phone.

John, Lynn gave you a great answer but let me just add that is you want an ABR which is an Accredited Buyers Representative you can visit http://www.Rebac.net to find one in the Ludington area. An ABR holds a designation certifying that they have undergone additional training in working with buyers. Good luck and happy house hunting!

Hi John-
To clarify the term "buyer's agent" for you, a Realtor becomes your "buyer's agent" when you sign a contract with that agent designating them to be your representative. Without this contractual agreement, the Realtor by law is automatically considered to be a "sub-agent" of the seller, even if it is not that agent's listing, and they probably do not even know the seller they are representing.

Finding a good agent that will go the extra mile for you is key to having a smooth transaction. I know several excellent agents in the Ludington area. Please reply to my email, or give me call (info on my web page) and we can talk about what type of property you are seeking, and what you are looking for an agent to do for you, so I can help you find someone that will fulfill your expectations. (No obligation, no pressure talking with me!) Possibly you are seeking an ABR (Acredited Buyer Representative), which IS an agent designation for special training in this area.

First John, let me say I love Ludington! I actually camp in Pentwater which I'm sure you know is not too far away. We venture to Ludington several times while we're there.

Suffice to say, I have a few connections up there. I take my referrlas very seriosuly. I actually go through an short inerview with the agent to make sure the agent is a good fit for you.

Feel free to drop me a line if you'd like a few names of qualified agents in the Ludington area.

Best of luck!
Lisa Bender