Who is Supposed to Show Me Homes for Sale?

“Who is supposed to show me homes for sale?” This question usually doesn’t get asked because everyone knows real estate agents show homes for sale. However, not many homebuyers know the proper protocol for who is supposed to show them homes whether they have an agent or not. So let’s explore and find out, who is supposed to show me homes for sale!  

Determining Your Situation

The first step to figuring out who is supposed to show me homes for sale is determining your situation. Below are the top 4 options, which one applies to your situation?

I Don’t Have an Agent
Who is supposed to show me homes, option 1: Buying a home can be a very exciting time, but it can be a stressful one too. If you don’t have a real estate agent now is a great time to find one to work with. There are countless benefits to working with one agent.

First, you will no longer have to sift through hundreds, even thousands, of homes for sale online to find ones you like, which may not even be available. Nor will you have to call multiple agents trying to find someone to show you homes for sale, they will do the searching for you! Second, real estate agents have access to new listings before the general public, so you won’t miss out on a great home. Third, real estate agents are able to educate you about the area and suggest neighborhoods you didn’t even know about or consider. Plus, they will be able to navigate you through the entire process; from writing an offer to doing the final walkthrough.

I Have An Agent
Who is supposed to show me homes, option 2: If you have an agent then your agent should be the one showing you homes. It doesn’t matter if they sent you a new listing or you found it on your own. They are your real estate agent, therefore, they should be the ones scheduling an appointment to show you the property.

The same applies if you have questions about a property. Do not start calling other agents and asking them questions, ask your agent. Your agent will be able to answer any questions you may have and if they don’t know the answer they will obtain the answer for you.

I know a lot of buyers don’t see the harm in calling other agents to ask questions, but what they fail to realize is they’re probably not calling the listing agent. Odds are they’re calling an agent, no different than the agent they’re working with, who will have to take time to find out the answer.

Since a majority of real estate agents don’t get paid a commission unless they sell a home it’s important for buyers to only contact the agent they plan on buying a home though. Now, if your agent is missing in action and unreachable you may have hired the wrong agent and might want to consider hiring a new agent.

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My Agent is on Vacation or Unavailable
Who is supposed to show me homes, option 3: If your agent is on vacation or unavailable to show you homes they should make arrangements for someone else to assist you. Whether it’s a fellow associate, their broker, or even the listing agent they shouldn’t leave you hanging.

They need to make sure someone will assist you in their absence. Once again you should not call other real estate agents to ask questions or show you homes if you plan on buying a home with your agent who’s unavailable. Your agent is the one who is supposed to show me homes and if they can’t they’ll find another who can.

I Only Want to Deal with the Listing Agent
Who is supposed to show me homes, option 4: You might think you’ll save money or it’ll be easier dealing directly with the listing agent, but that isn’t always the case. Who is the listing agent working for? Odds are they’re working for the seller, even if they are a dual agent or transaction broker. The listing agent has already established a relationship with the seller and may look out for their best interests whether they are supposed to or not.

Buyers need to remember the seller hired the listing agent to sell their home. Do you really think they are going to tell you about all of the negatives the home has to offer when you contact them? Maybe, but it’s unlikely.

However, by having your own agent they will be able to educate you about the current market conditions. Discuss the positives and negatives of a home. They will also be able to review comparables, help you structure an offer that doesn’t only benefit the seller, and negotiate the best possible terms. Plus, working with a buyer’s agent is usually free, so why wouldn’t you hire your own real estate agent?

Final Thoughts

If you don’t have an agent hire one. If you have an agent call them and only them. If your agent is on vacation and left you hanging hire a new one. If you want to be your own agent hire an attorney. An attorney won’t be able to educate you about the real estate market conditions or let you know if you’re paying too much for a home. However, they will be able to make sure you have a legally binding contract and will be able to explain your obligations.

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Popular Home Buying Questions

What should a buyer bring to a house viewing? When attending a house showing as a buyer, it may be helpful to bring a few items. If you have any questions or concerns about the property write down all of your questions and ask your real estate agent while touring the property. If they don’t know the answer they’ll be able to find out for you.

Additionally, bringing a measuring tape with could be useful if you have any questions about room dimensions. If allowed taking pictures or video of the property could come in handy especially if you’re viewing multiple properties at a time.

Can the listing agent show me a home for sale? Yes, if you don’t have a real estate agent the listing agent can show you any of their listings. However, it’s important to note in some states the listing agent may only represent the seller’s interests and may have limited fiduciary duties to the buyer. If you’re interested in working directly with the listing agent, it’s recommended to clarify the agency relationship. Is dual agency allowed, are all parties transaction brokers, or would the listing agent have to refer you to another agent on their team?

Do buyers have to attend the home inspection? Buyers are not required to attend the home inspection, but it is highly recommended that they do so.  Attending the home inspection allows buyers to ask questions, gain a better understanding of the property’s condition, and receive valuable insights from the home inspector first-hand. They’ll be able to physically show buyers any areas of concern. This can be much more helpful than seeing photographs along with a description in the home inspection report.

Can a buyer ask the seller questions when viewing their home? Yes, a buyer can certainly ask the seller questions when viewing their home. When touring a property, it’s not uncommon for buyers to have questions or want clarification on various aspects of the home. This could include questions about the property’s features, renovations or upgrades, maintenance history, neighborhood amenities, or any other details that may be important to the buyer.

About the Author

Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote: “Who is Supposed to Show Me Homes for Sale?”

Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughout Wellington Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you call or e-mail her today.

Areas of service include Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, and more.

Who is Supposed to Show Me Homes for Sale?