Step 4 to Buying a Home: Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

The right agent can save you money, stress, and mistakes you didn’t even know were possible. Especially when you’re buying your first home.

Hi, I’m Josie Sommers, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Realty. This is part four of my ten-part series on the steps to buying a home. You’ve checked your credit, figured out your budget, and gotten pre-approved. Now it’s time to pick the person who’ll walk the rest of the way with you.

Why You Need an Agent in Your Corner

Every buyer should take advantage of the guidance a real estate agent has to offer, but it matters most when you’ve never been through the process before. A good agent helps you with so many things you may not even know about yet, and in the long run, that can save you money.

Here’s some of what your agent does for you:

Spots issues during showings that you might walk right past.
Negotiates for you, on price, repairs, and terms.
Lays out your options, including ways that may help your financial situation, like asking the seller to help with closing costs when the situation allows.
Keeps every deadline on track so nothing slips through the cracks.
Works with your lender and the closing agent to keep everyone on the same page.
Makes sure your paperwork and disclosures are done, including ones you may not know exist.
Watches for red flags along the way.

One thing I always want to be clear about: I’m not a lawyer, and I will never give legal advice or advice I’m not qualified to give. But I’m here to guide you toward the right people and the right information when you need it.

Your Own Agent vs. Calling the Listing Agent

A lot of first-time buyers find a home online and call the number on the listing. That number usually belongs to the listing agent, who already represents the seller.

Many of those agents may offer to work with you too. That’s called dual agency, where one agent represents both the buyer and the seller. In Minnesota, it’s allowed with written consent from both sides. But when one agent represents both parties, they can’t fully advocate for either one.

Having your own agent means someone is fully in your corner, focused on what’s best for you.

What to Look for in an Agent

When I think about the kind of agent I’d want if I were buying my first home, here’s what matters most:

Transparency. They’re honest about the situation you’re in.
All your options on the table. They lay everything out so you can see the full picture.
No pressure. You make your own decisions, with their guidance whenever you need it.
No judgment. You can ask any question, especially when you’re new to all of this.
Real experience. They share their input and feedback based on what they’ve seen.
An ally. Buying a home can be very emotional, good or bad, and you want someone on your side through all of it.

Questions to Ask Before You Choose

Before you pick an agent, have a real conversation. Here are a few questions worth asking:

What do you stand for?
What’s your goal for me?
How can you help me get the best outcome?

Then pay attention to how you feel. If you don’t feel comfortable opening up to an agent, they may not be the best fit. It’s not impossible to make it work, but you’ll be sharing personal details and going through a big range of emotions together. Comfort matters.

What Is a Buyer Agreement?

Before you start touring homes with an agent, you’ll typically sign a written buyer agreement. A lot of first-time buyers are surprised by it, but it’s actually there to protect you.

It’s a way for everyone in the transaction to not be surprised by anything.
It outlines the relationship and what’s expected of both you and your agent.
It should be clear and direct about what your agent provides, how they’re paid, and what you get out of it.

Think of it as a guideline for the game. Read it, and ask your agent to walk you through anything that isn’t clear. A good agent will be happy to.

Why I Do This

I want to be all of those things for my clients: transparent, pressure-free, and someone you can ask anything. If I don’t have the answer to something, I’ll do my very best to find out.

I also don’t do it alone. I work alongside my dad, Tom Sommers, who has more than two decades of experience in real estate. So you get his experience plus my fresh eyes on your situation, and I’d love to grow with you through your first home and beyond.

Your Step 4 Checklist

Talk to an agent before you start touring homes.
Ask what they stand for, what their goal is, and how they’ll help you.
Make sure they’re transparent and lay out all your options.
Choose someone you feel comfortable opening up to.
Read your buyer agreement and ask questions about anything unclear.
Think twice before letting the listing agent represent you too.

Looking for an Agent for Your First Home?

If you’re starting your home search and want someone in your corner, I’d love to talk. There’s no pressure and no question too basic. Reach out anytime.

Next week in the series: Step 5 of buying a home.

Catch Up on the Series

Step 1: Check Your Credit Score
Step 2: Figure Out Your Budget
Step 3: Get Pre-Approved

Call or Text Josie

Helping first-time buyers in:

Lakeville
Prior Lake
Shakopee

Josie Sommers, Coldwell Banker Realty
Call or text: 952-454-8504
josie.sommers@cbrealty.com