Why Use A Buyer Agent -- Tom Vesolich, Certified Buyer Representative

We don't buy homes very often so when we do it is imperative to use the services of someone who is going to be working for you. And that is the Buyer Agent.
The purchase is many faceted and you need someone who has the expertise to minimize any problems that may arise.
A buyer agent represents only you in the transaction. In most instances, the seller will be represented by an agent and you should be as well.

The buyer's agent will help you negotiate the best possible deal while a
seller's agent is obligated to obtain the best price for the seller.
The negotiating capabilities of the buyer's agent could save the buyer thousands of dollars. Money Magazine estimates as much as 5%.
A buyer agent must maintain confidentiality.
The buyer agent provides a competitive edge.
Research by the National Association of Realtors has shown that when a buyer agent is used, the prospective buyer found their home one week faster and examined three more properties than those consumers who did not use a buyers agent.
Buyer agents can help you with any home on the market, whether listed by another broker, a foreclosure, for sale by owner, or government resale.
In any purchasing decision it is important for you to know the values of homes in a neighborhood. The buyer agent can provide this type of information, as well as what a homes good and bad points are.
The buyer agent will try to find out information that the sellers would actually like to keep quiet. This could be whether or not there have been other offers, a seller's job transfer, divorce, or days on the market, anything that gives the buyer more leverage.
A buyer's agent can answer questions that an agent working for the seller may not be permitted to. Remember that a traditional seller agent is required by law to protect the interests of the seller, while the buyer agent is required to protect the interests of the buyer.