Represent yoursef or using a buying agent?

[JR Rivas]

Hey all! My question is should you represent yourself or use a buyers agent? I understand the buyers agent is free but they‘re not going to fight for you to get the best price. They somewhat pretend to have your best interests at heart but in reality want you to agree to a price as quickly as possible. Sometimes I even get the feeling that they collude with the sellers agents to strategize on the offer i’ll accept the quickest. What do you guys think?

[Mike Dorneman]

@JR Rivas valid concerns with your question. I’d say the best way to ensure you have a buyers agent that will represent your best interest would be by getting them via referral. The key here is finding an agent that works with investors. One that understands your goals of cash flow, appreciation or anything else you may be focused on. You don’t want a realtor who’s primary client is the “home buyer” interested in a nice kitchen or great yard for the kids. You need a realtor that understands this is a business (quantitative) transaction for you with the end goal of profit. Your challenge will be convincing this type of agent that you are a serious investor and that working with you will be a good use of their time. I’ve found that solid agents who represent investors are hard to come by, because they are in such high demand. However if you close deals and do what you say you will, they’ll quickly line up to work with you. Good luck!