Does the Agent Work for Me?

This can be confusing but there is one quick way to tell who is working for you. That is if you have a written agreement with the agent. If you don’t have an agreement with the agent who is helping you purchase a home, then technically he is a sub-agent for the listing agent. Even if he/she has never met the listing agent and found out about the property through the Multiple Listing Service or MLS. This is why I want to even the playing field and work directly for my buyers with an agreement. Take a look below at the amount of services I can provide as a “Buyer’s Rep.” versus a “Sub-Agent”.

Sub-Agency
(at this point you are a customer)

Honesty

Disclose material facts only

Prepare a purchase contract

Deliver paperwork

Collect earnest money and deliver to the title company

No there’s nothing else missing on this side. When I am a sub-agent my legal obligations are to the listing agreement with the seller even if it’s not my listing. Until there is a written agreement between you and I. This is why I want you as my buyer so that I can perform at my best and get you the best deal possible on your new home! Oh and by the way, this is true for all agents in the great state of Texas not just me.
 

 Buyers Representation
(at this point you are my client)

Honesty

Complete loyalty to the buyer’s needs

Confidentiality

Given first opportunity to view new listings

Full disclosure of all facts and any other pertinent information

Given advice and opinion during the entire process

CMA (opinion of value) prepared on properties considered by the buyer

Provide price counseling

Prepare the purchase contract

Deliver paperwork

Collect earnest money and deliver to title company

Negotiate purchase contract on behalf of Buyer

Share all information about Seller

Attempt to strengthen the Buyer’s negotiation position

Suggest financing alternative’s

Attempt to solve problems to the Buyer’s satisfaction