Should I hire a Buyers Agent?

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Do you need an agent? No.But if you are asking if you need an agent....then you probably need one.

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@Brian D. Beatty Thanks a lot Brian. This makes so much since and clears a lot of things up for me.

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@Robert Brock No problem, always realize that by using the listing agent only, you're never sure, whether your interest is being accounted for. Buyers agent is almost always paid a portion of the commission, from the seller. You as a buyer, will only be paying closing costs, which you would have to do, with or without representation. It wasn't a dumb question. It's more of a common question, then most people realize. I once showed several homes to a couple, they had this look of bewilderment all day. At the end when I asked if they had any that they were interested in placing an offer on. The husband hesitantly asked what my fee was? Once I explained, they did not pay me at all, the look of relief was pretty amazing. So I now make sure all of my buyers know this, on my initial consultation.

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@Brian D. Beatty Thanks a lot for the feedback Brian as I really appreciate your feedback on this. I am open to agent recommendations if you can provide them.

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Working with a buyer's agent is a no-brainer. Representation of your interests during the transaction is really just the beginning. A good (full time) agent will always be a great source of market intel, see's a lot more houses both online and in person than you have time for, should be well connected in the industry with other hand picked professionals like lenders, home inspectors, contractors, knows what to do and who to ask about tricky and uncommon issues, can offer a second set of eyes and an opinion to double check your own conclusions etc etc.And then there is the emotional side, which is a little hard to explain. I just did a personal transaction with an unrepresented individual - and quite frankly it was hell on wheels and even though it was a high priced property I would have gladly paid the commission to have that person represented by a good agent. They did not understand what they were talking about, half the time I was negotiating against my own personal interests, just to prevent them from getting the process derailed, asking for things that made no sense, doing things that are not customary and worst of all constantly tried to make things personal and emotional. And literally forcing me into a final price concession half way through the closing. My friends know I am all about win-win and not win-loose. That was a nasty one, I am glad its done. So yes, being represented by an agent is a no-brainer, I don't even want to represent myself. Find an agent who does more than 30 deals a year and is an active investor! There are not many, so you will have to do some digging. Good luck!

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Hiring is not the correct term. Engaging the services of a Buyers Agent is a smart move in many respects. The commission is paid by the seller so what have you got to lose?

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if you are asking the question, then you should find a Buyers agent and be sure to have a Buyer Agency agreement with them so they represent you. in time you should not need one. I have been licensed since 2006.

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I would agree with most of the comments above, Yes, it makes sense to use a buyers agent because the commissions come out of the sellers side. That being said, Make sure you use an agent that is familiar with these types of sales. I'm an agent, but, I'm also a custom builder/flipper that focuses on distressed properties! I look at the Judicial, sheriff and auction sales. If I can be of assistance, let me know? I'm in the North & Northwest suburbs from the city to the Wisconsin border!

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@Jake Alger Thanks a lot for your response.

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Hi Robert,Technically you do not need an agent in order to make an offer on a property. However, it definitely makes more sense to be represented by a broker as it comes at not cost to you (typically) on the buy side. Having a broker allows someone who is knowledgable in real estate transactions to prepare an offer, protect your interests and guide you through the process.