I Just Want To See The Home.
In the world of real estate, efficiency is key. However, some companies have taken efficiency to an extreme, with one aspect of the home-buying process that may seem convenient at first glance but could ultimately work against consumers. More and more real estate companies are employing “showing agents,” individuals whose sole job is to open doors and give potential buyers a basic tour of homes. These showing agents are typically separate from the agents who write offers and negotiate deals. While this setup may seem like a way to streamline the process, it can actually lead to a range of problems that could cost buyers time, money, and peace of mind.
Here’s the problem: the agent who opens the door for you and walks you through a property may not have any real connection to the listing beyond that one-time showing. They likely haven’t studied the home’s history, understood the seller’s motivations, or even fully grasped the local market conditions. And when it comes time to put in an offer on that home, it’s entirely possible that the agent handling the offer isn’t the same one who showed you the house—and may not have even set foot inside it themselves. This is not just inefficient; it’s completely counterproductive.
Without a single point of contact who knows both the home and your personal needs, the advice you receive could be watered down or even misguided. Imagine putting in an offer on a home based solely on what you saw during a quick tour, but without understanding the nuances of the neighborhood, the condition of the home, or the potential for future appreciation (or depreciation). Worse yet, if the person writing the offer has never even seen the property, how can they truly represent your best interests? The short answer is: they can’t.
This fragmented approach can also create a situation where your agent might not be aware of critical factors that influence your decision. For example, there could be hidden issues with the property that would have been flagged by a more experienced agent who had a deeper understanding of the home. Maybe there’s a history of water damage, or the neighborhood has been steadily declining in value—details that could be missed if your showing agent is detached from the offer-writing process.
So, how do you avoid this risk? The answer is simple: pair up with one expert. One agent who not only knows the ins and outs of the market, but also holds the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation. The ABR® designation is the crème de la crème in real estate credentials—it represents an agent who has completed extensive training and demonstrated expertise in working directly with buyers. This agent will be with you every step of the way, from showing the home to crafting a strategic offer that’s based on their in-depth knowledge of both the property and the market.
Working with a single, seasoned professional ensures that you have someone who understands your needs, has a deep connection to the property, and is equipped to handle the complex negotiations involved in securing your dream home. They’ll be able to give you personalized advice, help you avoid costly mistakes, and advocate for your best interests throughout the entire process.
In the end, “just going to see a home” might seem harmless, but it can be the very thing that costs you money in the long run if you’re not working with the right expert. By choosing StrausInTheHouse, an ABR®-certified agent, you’re choosing a true advocate—someone who will be there for you, from the first tour to the final closing. Don’t let big conglomerates slice up the process—make sure you have one knowledgeable expert by your side.
