Buyer’s Specialist versus Listing Agent – what’s the difference?
In a real estate transaction, a buyer’s specialist is a real estate agent who represents the buyer, whereas a listing agent represents the seller.
As a buyer you might ask yourself, “Why hire someone to represent me? Can’t I just speak to listing agents at each property I visit?” While this is certainly true, it is often an unwise choice. Alex Cortez, a Realtor with Wailea Village Properties in Kihei, HI, had this to say on the subject:
“It’s in your best interest as a buyer to get an agent who is there to represent you. Think about it this way: If you were getting sued, would you hire the same attorney as the person suing you? Of course not. You need someone who will diligently fight for your interests and rights.”
At Hamilton & Company, our Buyer’s Specialists are not only prepared to represent you well, but they are also willing to go the extra mile to ensure a smooth transition. Take a look at the agent comparison below to understand the benefits of being represented by a Hamilton & Company Buyer’s Specialist:
| Working with a Buyer’s Specialist | Working with a Listing Agent | |
| Explain the home buying process | Yes! | No |
| Do a needs assessment for you | Yes! | No |
| Arrange financing | Yes! | No |
| Protect your confidential interests | Yes! | No |
| Refine your home search | Yes! | No |
| Schedule appointments to view homes | Yes! | No |
| Provide you access to homes for sale | Yes! | No |
| Do research on the home for you | Yes! | No |
| Answer questions about any home viewed | Yes! | No |
| Point out advantages/disadvantages to any home viewed | Yes! | No |
| Prepare a market comparative analysis for you | Yes! | No |
| Prepare the offer for you | Yes! | Maybe |
| Negotiate the offer in your favor, including concessions from the seller | Yes! | No |
| Negotiate a home warranty for you | Yes! | No |
| Set up the closing on any home viewed | Yes! | No |
| Recommend a competent home inspector | Yes! | Maybe |
| Negotiate the home repairs in your favor | Yes! | No |
| Get you access to input from accountants, attorneys, mortgage specialists, and other service providers | Yes! | No |
| Offer a 12 month satisfaction guarantee | Yes! | No |
| Fully represent you at the closing table | Yes! | No |
| Provide a moving truck if needed | Yes! | No |
As you can clearly see, one of these agents is looking out for you, the buyer, and one of them is not.
At Hamilton & Company, we bring years of experience to the table, paired with our passion for excellence and committed customer service. We listen. We research. We work with you to find the right home to buy.
Interested in purchasing a home in Greenville, South Carolina? Give us a call at 864.527.7685 and tell us what you’re looking for!
Dan Hamilton is the founder of Hamilton & Co. and the lead listing agent for the team. He is the only agent in the Upstate endorsed by Shark Tank star and real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran. Additionally, Dan hosts a weekly radio show on The Answer 94.5 and 106.3 WORD giving tips and advice on real estate and is a frequent contributor for real estate on Your Carolina TV show on WSPA Channel 7.
