Saturday, October 29, 2005

Free Seattle Condo Buying Class

WashingtonStateHousing.com is offering a free Seattle condos buying classs on Wed Nov 2. This Seattle Real Estate Class should benefit new buyers or current owners of condominiums. Learn about the opertation of the association and items to watch out for when choosing a condominium.

Friday, October 28, 2005

Buyers Agent

Do Buyers need the help of a buyers Representative?


Yes! Buyers should work with a real estate professional who is totally loyal to them and is knowledgeable concerning condominiums and Townhomes.


Does the Buyers Agent make decisions for you?


No! The buyers agent will use his expertise and provide you information concerning the negotiations, financing, contingencies and the closing process. This information will allow you to help make decisions. The buyers agent might direct you to other experts to help with the buying process.


How much does the buyers agent cost?


The cost of the buyers agent is typically free. The fee is paid by the seller when listing the property. A portion of the listing fee goes to your agent for negotiating for you. There is no risk using a buyers agent considering the risks of buying real estate


Does the buyers agent represent the seller?


No, the buyers agent is legally obligated to you and must keep all information concerning financial and personal information concerning you confidential. That another important reason to work with a buyers agent. The listing agent does not have this responsibility.

What properties can the buyers agent show me?

The accredited buyers agent has access to all Northwest Multiple Listed Properties from all companies.

What is a Certified Residential Specialist ?

This national recognized designation is considered the PHD in real estate, only the very best performing agents may earn this designation.

New Construction / Presales

When buying new construction many buyers are unaware that they might be able to have their own buyers agent represent them in the transaction at no additional cost to the buyer. The agent can give them recommendations concerning location of the unit in the complex. Upgrades and various other items affecting the purchase. Remember the on site agent works for the builder or developer (seller) and has to be loyal to them. You need your own representation when purchasing such a large investment. Get your buyers agent before entering a new construction site or presale site. I believe you should not sign anything including anything that provides your name before you have your own representation. When entering the site let them know you are working with a buyers agent and the agents name.

Finding an real estate professional

Before starting the process of purchasing a condominium or town home you should seek help of a professional agent. Much like choosing a lawyer or doctor you want to ensure you are working with someone who watches out for your interests. When interviewing a agent you should be provided with a resume containing the agents experience. During the interview you will want to see how the agent works. Working with friends and relatives is great but do you really have confidence in their ability to handle a purchase which in this area amounts to a quarter of a million dollars or more. This link provides you with a local real estate agents resume. Many times buyers find out that they did not get the right advice when they try to sell their condo. They overpaid for the condo or did not know about certain conditions that made the condominium unattractive to buyers. There are many Free Washington State classes that teach you about the condominium buying process

Thursday, October 27, 2005

Condominium Insurance

When buying a condo the insurance included in the association dues might not cover personal belongings, appliances or carpet in the unit. It might be wise to get separate insurance.

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Friday, October 07, 2005

New Construction / Presales

When buying new construction or presales many buyers are unaware that they might be able to have their own buyers agent represent them in the transaction at no additional cost to the buyer. The agent can give them recommendations concerning location of the unit in the complex. Upgrades and various other items affecting the purchase. Remember the on site agent works for the builder or developer (seller) and has to be loyal to them. You need your own representation when purchasing such a large investment. Get your buyers agent before entering a new construction site or presale site. I believe you should not sign anything including anything that provides your name before you have your own representation. When entering the site let them know you are working with a buyers agent and the agents name.