According to Prudential Real Estate.com, it's a toss up between the two most popular methods: the internet, and a real estate professional. With technology booming like it is, it's no mystery why people are turning to the internet to find and browse for homes. Many folks are doing both, where they browse online in addition to working with an agent.
Other methods include talking with a neighbor, seeing property in a magazine/newspaper, walking in an open house, and more.
Today, the discussion of buyer's looking to cut out their agent to save money came up at lunch. The four of us, all agents, discussed why it's sad that more people aren't aware of how exactly this industry works. So, we'd like to clear the smoke a little.
Although this idea sounds like a possibility, think about the logistics: When a buyer teams up with a professional real estate agent, 99% of the time, they don't pay a dime for their time or service. In Texas, buyer's agents are paid by the seller, who pays both their listing agent and the buyer's agent. This means you get to view homes, be insured, and have a professional help you find a home for free! In some rare circumstances you may run into a seller who completely refuses to pay the buyer's agent, but generally speaking, you've got nothing to worry about.
So, when it's time to explore your moving possibilities, invest your trust and loyalty to a professional with the knowledge and determination to get you the best home possible. After all, that's our job and we love doing it!!!
