Copy by Graham White Managing Director, Local Real Estate
If I was a buyer looking to purchase a property, I would of course do my research regarding the area and where I would want to reside. However, just as importantly, I would also spend some time researching the property practitioner I wanted to work with. My rationale? Because as a buyer, this is probably the single most important decision I will make in this whole process. This is going to be a journey I am about to embark on, so I want to partner with and connect with a property practitioner that I can trust throughout the whole process.
Furthermore, what I would not do, is not do my research and start clicking on multiple property links. By doing this, I will unknowingly be engaging with countless property practitioners, and I will start getting calls every minute of the day, resulting in the fact that I will now be looking with everyone. The other problem with this methodology is that I am not going to be able to build a long-lasting rapport with someone as I would be forced to view certain properties through many different agents - because that is how the system works.
There is nothing wrong with the system, it just needs to be understood. The most important thing to know as a buyer starting out is that you can view 99% of properties through one property practitioner. The property practitioner you are working with will split the commissions with the other property practitioner but as a buyer, you only have to deal with one person. More accurately, you will be represented by your chosen property practitioner. You will de facto become their client and they should work towards your best interests. This is something you certainly can’t expect to have if you are dealing with numerous people. If, however, you do decide to work with lots of property practitioners, do not be surprised if you are not called straight away with the latest new property as you could potentially be caught in the cross hairs if two property practitioners feel they were “the one” who introduced you to a particular property.
Once I have selected a particular property practitioner, I would advise them that I am only working with them and through them, so that they have the confidence to deal with me as a valued client. My justification? If the buyer commits, and the property practitioner knows they are going to get the deal, the property practitioner can offer unbiased opinions. The property practitioner will also have no temptation to unnecessarily speed up the viewing or selection process. They can manage the process in a measured, calm, and professional manner, because the buyer has afforded them the time to find the perfect property. That property practitioner would (in my opinion anyway) be able to work without any undue pressure and give focussed time to the committed buyer versus all the other “possible” buyers they might be working with. This should also include calling the committed buyer first about red-hot properties before they are released online.
In summary. If I've selected the right property practitioner who assures me of trustworthy transactions and consistently provides honest advice, along with a commitment to perform thorough property searches including listings from other agents, I will feel comfort knowing that I will be getting the best service. Doing it any other way would not be preferable to me.