Should You Work With the Listing Agent When You’re Buying a Home in Tampa?

Published On: May 3, 2016|Categories: Blog, Buyers|

buying a home with a buyer's agent in tampa bay

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, quite a bit of this process is new to you—but as long as you have a buyer’s agent working hard on your behalf, the process will be as smooth as possible.

However, some buyers (first-time and otherwise) think it’s a good idea to just go ahead and work with the listing agent to purchase a home.

Unfortunately, that’s often a mistake.

The Differences Between Buyer’s Agents and Listing Agents

A buyer’s agent doesn’t cost the buyer a dime. Instead, the seller pays the agent’s commission.

With that said, there are several benefits that buyers reap when they choose to work with a skilled Realtor®. The buyer’s agent is committed to helping the buyer do several things, from searching for homes that meet their needs to negotiating with the sellers.

Other things a buyer’s agent will do include:

  • Show you homes
  • Help you make informed decisions
  • Advise you when it’s time to make an offer
  • Negotiate with sellers
  • Structure your real estate transaction in the way that best benefits you

Listing agents work for the seller. Their prime concern is to get as much money as possible for the home while selling it as quickly as possible. Unlike a buyer’s agent, whose loyalty is to you alone, a seller’s agent’s loyalties lie with the seller. The seller’s agent is there to represent the seller’s best interest, which may not be in your best interest.

Are You Buying a Home in Tampa Bay?

If you’re buying a home in Tampa or the surrounding communities, it’s a good idea to work with a buyer’s agent who can guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions possible.

When you’re ready to start looking at homes for sale in Hillsborough CountyPasco County or Pinellas County, we’re here to help.

Call us at 727-584-8480 or 813-961-6000. If it’s easier, get in touch with us online. We’ll begin searching for your new home right away.