By Jack Harris, Mark Baumann and Charleen Knapp

Texas A&M University Real Estate Center

Various tasks have to be completed when buying a home. A real estate agent can be helpful in completing those tasks.

An Agent Can Help with:

• Getting Ready by:

• prequalifying you for financing so that you will have an idea of how much house you can afford and what type of monthly obligation would be involved;

• showing you pictures and descriptions of homes available in your price range on the Multiple Listing Service; and

• providing information on schools and other city services, as well as tax rates.

• Searching the Market by:

• taking you on an inspection tour of homes you might consider;

• helping you, in most cases, gain access to these homes for a full evaluation;

• providing detailed information about each house or by obtaining answers to your questions quickly; and

• disclosing any known defects in the home.

• Negotiating a Contract by:

• providing the proper forms for preparing a sales contract when you are ready to make a bid on a home;

• assisting you with any procedural questions on how to complete the contract; and

• conveying the contract to the seller as well as any counteroffers and requested contract modifications. Note: an agent who has contracted with the seller cannot offer you advice on how much to offer.
   
• Arranging Financing by:

• providing information about current mortgage loan terms and guidance on the various sources of loans;

• allowing you, if the agent is equipped, to shop for a loan over a special computerized network for a fee; and

• in many cases, submitting an application via computer and having your loan approved within a week or so.

• Preparing for Closing by:

• providing guidance on the things that must be done before closing;

• arranging for the necessary professional inspections on a timely basis;

• providing access to the home for any last-minute inspection; and

• negotiating an interim lease for buyers who need to move in prior to closing.

Although the agent is prepared to help you find the home you want, he or she does work for the seller and is not allowed to provide information that would harm the seller’s interest. However, you may be able to arrange to be represented by a buyer’s agent. A buyer’s agent can work in the interest of the buyer even when it is not in the best interest of the seller by:

• showing homes being sold by their owners without professional assistance;
• counseling you on how much to offer and how to respond to a counteroffer; and
• negotiating a contract on your behalf.

Dr. Harris is a research economist, Baumann is an associate research social scientist and Knapp is a graduate assistant with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University.