Why hire a buying agent?
Many buyers wonder whether a buying agent is worth the investment. The answer depends on your experience, the market and the home you're looking for. In this article we explain what a buying agent does and when the difference is greatest.
What does a buying agent do?
A buying agent is on your side. Where the selling agent represents the seller's interests, a buying agent makes sure you buy the right home for the right price. That starts with sharpening your wishes and continues right through to the key transfer at the notary's office.
Searching and selecting
A buying agent helps you search, including for homes not yet online. They know the market and know which homes suit your wishes. That way you waste less time on viewings that lead nowhere. Set up a free search profile now.
Viewing with a critical eye
During the viewing your agent looks beyond the styling. They pay attention to the structural condition, the owners' association, leasehold and other points of attention. Also read our tips on preparing for a viewing and about the structural survey.
Valuation and bidding
One of the most important tasks is determining the market value. Your buying agent compares the home with recent sales and advises on the level of your bid. Afterwards they carry out the negotiations on your behalf. That prevents you from paying too much or deciding emotionally. Read more about that in bidding smartly on a home.
Checking the purchase agreement
After an agreement, your agent checks the purchase agreement. Do the arrangements on price, delivery, movable items and dissolving conditions match up? They also monitor the deadlines, such as the financing contingency.
When is it extra valuable?
A buying agent is extra valuable if you're buying for the first time, if you have little time, if you're buying in an unfamiliar city, or if the market is tight. Expert help also pays off with special homes or complex situations, such as leasehold or an owners' association with deferred maintenance.
What does it cost?
The cost of a buying agent differs per office and per service. It's often a fixed amount or a percentage. Weigh that against the money you can save with a well-substantiated bid and by avoiding costly mistakes.
Buying with Evim
Our buying agents are active in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam and Arnhem. Read more on our buying agent page, browse the homes we've already purchased for clients, or get in touch.
Frequently asked: can't the selling agent help me?
The selling agent works for the seller and represents their interests. They can help you with information about the home, but cannot independently advise you on the price or your negotiating position. A buying agent does. They're fully on your side and look critically at the home, the documents and the conditions. That way you negotiate on equal footing and make decisions with confidence.
Evim's buying assignments
Curious about our experience? Browse the buying assignments we've carried out for clients.