What is a Buyer's Agent?
A buyer representative (also known as a buyer's agent) represents the consumer who is purchasing the home or property in a real estate transaction, not the seller. In Connecticut, a buyer representative owes full fiduciary duties, including loyalty, to the buyer. A buyer's agent works on behalf of the buyer with their best interests in mind through the entire real estate transaction.
 
Why should I use a Buyer's Agent?
How often do you buy real estate? Once, twice, three times in your lifetime? Purchasing real estate is a complex and major transaction with many details to be handled. In most cases, the seller will be represented by a real estate professional.Wouldn't you want to have complete and fair representation in the real estate transaction? 
 
What does a Buyer's Agent do for me?
A buyer's agent will attempt to locate property for you based on your criteria and will negotiate on your behalf for the best possible terms and conditions so you can get the best deal possible. A buyer's agent will also assist you and act in your best interest throughout the entire real estate transaction! A professional agent knows the market and can help you make informed decisions. Any questions regarding legal issues, taxes, property inspection should be directed to your attorney, tax advisor, building inspector or appropriate agencies.
 
Do I have to sign an agreement?
Yes. The state of Connecticut prohibits a real estate professional from showing property to a buyer or acting on a buyer's behalf without written consent from the buyer to act on the buyer's behalf. This agreement is commonly known as a buyer/broker agreement. It lets you know in writing that: #1 the agent is working for you, not the seller; #2 any retainer the agent may charge you (My services are FREE!); and #3 how the buyer's agent receives their compensation. The seller's agent and the buyer's agent then share the commision that the seller is paying. The laws in the state of Connecticut require disclosure of these terms in writing. If an agent shows you property without a signed buyer/broker agreement from you, then they are either working for the seller, or they are showing you the property illegally. In Connecticut, by law, an agent is not working for you unless you have a signed agreement with them!
 
How much does it cost?
My services are completely FREE! I receive compensation for my work through a buyer/broker commission that is paid for by the seller. This is not true with all agents, or all agreements, so read the agreement carefully.
 
What is an ABR?
The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation. This coveted designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC) of the National Association of REALTORS® who meet the specified educational and practical experience criteria. I am proud to hold the ABR® designation.