Are you looking at buying one of the many bank owned properties in Central Oregon? La Pine, Three Rivers South, Bend and even Sunriver have homes that are bank owned or listed for less than the seller owes (short sale). The banks have agents on their side of the transaction, you deserve someone on your side.
Did you know that you do not pay more if you have your own agent? One of the most misunderstood concepts of real estate is that by dealing with the listing agent the buyer will get a better deal. This is not true, Banks and sellers alike have contracts with the listing agent. Once those listings go into the Central Oregon MLS they are bound to pay both the listing and selling agent.
Buyers your representation is vitally important to you! Having an agent that is there to put your needs first is your best defense in any market condition. Many of these bank owned properties are listed with agents that know little of the area. I am not saying they are not good agents, they are doing a good job for the BANK -They spend a lot of time and money paying utility bills, and checking on the property. Their job is to get the bank the most for the house they can. My job is to get the most home for the least amount of money for you.
A few of the horror stories I have heard recently include buying a home without proper access to the property. Buying a home that had a failed septic system (a cost to the buyer in excess of $16,000) a buyer purchasing a home that was in great shape when they viewed the home, inspected a home and when they moved in there were no plumbing fixtures nor lights.
Buyers your needs and your investment are my number one priority – please feel free to call, email or stop by the office (ask for me) and let’s talk about your needs, your wishes, and the homes and loans available to you.
This is so true, Thesa. Many people, especially first time home buyers, aren’t fully aware of what a good buyer’s agent can do for them. The listing agent is looking out for the seller’s (or the bank’s) best interest, not the buyer’s, so it’s critical that the buyers have someone in their corner to make sure the ship doesn’t hit any icebergs! Trying to navigate these waters on their own can result in major headaches for buyers who aren’t familiar with all the nuances and trials that foreclosures/short sales can bring. All it takes is a good buyer’s agent to level the playing field, or maybe even tilt it a little in their favor!
I was completely taken by surprise when a buyer told me that they thought they HAD to work with the Bank’s agent – that was how the price was so low.