There are people who think that a realtor is not necessary to represent them in purchasing a home. The power of the Internet allows someone to visit various homes for sale from the comfort of a desktop in the den. Many homes listed have virtual tours that give a real feel of the home. But there is more to buying a home. You should consider working with a realtor that you pick.

The realtor who has listed the property works for the seller not the buyer. This is because the seller will be paying the commission to the realtor upon the sale of the home. When you retain your own realtor to help find a home the agent works with you but for the seller. It comes back to who is paying the commission. Still the buyer’s agent will try to meet your goals.

If allowed by state law, some realtors will want you to sign a buyer’s agreement. This document basically states that you will retain the agent exclusively to find a home. In consideration for this the agent’s duties will be spelled out. The reason the agent might want this is that there is a lot of time and effort that goes into finding you a home. This will bind you at least in good faith to stick with the one that is helping you. It would be up to you if you want to sign the document.

So with that in mind, you need to take certain steps so that you can find and work with a realtor that will locate for you the home you want and need. You should talk to several realtors, including any that may have been referred by friends or relatives. Make a list beforehand of what you want. You should have a wish list of neighborhood, type of house, square footage and lot size. Nearness to schools, churches, medical facilities and major shopping malls may play a part in your decision.

The realtor should be able to assess your needs and fit you with a group of homes to consider. The realtor should be meeting your goals by only showing you homes that you can afford and want. An important part of this process is for you to get pre-approved by a lender in the beginning. This will allow the realtor to focus on homes you can afford. It will give the realtor strength in presenting an offer to the seller’s agent when the time comes. If there is more than one offer going on at the same time it shows you are ready to close.

There may be a rejection of your offer or a counter offer made by the seller. These should be carefully explained to you at the time by your realtor. It is to be understood that with any counter offer you need to take into consideration whether you can perform what is asked. Examples would be if you could qualify for a higher sales price or if you want to take on excess repairs not called for in the earnest money agreement. You will consider whether it is worth it to you to get the home or move on and look for another opportunity.

Once you have an accepted sales agreement the realtor will assist in providing closing arrangements, entry for the appraiser and ongoing communication with all parties involved until funding. A realtor who is honest, knows the business and is someone who you can get along with will be a real asset for you in completing your home transaction.