Though buyer agreements have always existed, late last year a mandate went into effect that requires home buyers to sign the buyer agreement contract with their agent before that agent can begin showing them any prospective properties. This agreement helps new homebuyers understand fully the relationship with the agent and the services they will provide, as well as their compensation for providing those services. It protects the home buyer and agent by establishing very clear expectations right away.

“It’s important to understand that the compensation for agents is negotiable on both sides,” shares Nina Sable.

“While the buyer can be responsible for their real estate agent’s commission, at times the seller has it negotiated into the deal. Negotiations with sellers to cover these costs is a common occurrence and helps to lower a prospective home buyer’s out-of-pocket expense.” 

Nina shares that for a seller, the best strategy is for them to pay full commission, however, discussing other arrangements that include contingencies can also be mutually beneficial.

Contingencies can be worked into offers, such as adding money toward appraisal of the home if the house doesn’t appraise, waiving a home inspection, or having a flexible timeline. Building a budget around these things helps to protect against risks.

She strongly recommends initially meeting with the agent at the office, because while buyers can still attend open houses, it can get incredibly stressful without understanding the process or once bidding begins. Meeting with the agent first and having a clear picture of the market and how they can help meet your needs is key.

“We are in a hot market again, so buyers can expect that when they bid on a home that there will be anywhere from 5-20 offers in play. There are also a lot of investors right now, even though rates are still on the high side, so it’s really important to plan ahead,” says Nina.

“This is also a great time for absentee homeowners or those who are looking to downsize to sell their properties and get the highest return, and we would love to work with you to make that happen,” Nina shares.

With three agents that have backgrounds in various specialties such as senior services, media relations, and working with Spanish-speaking clients, Nina and her team are ready to make the process as simple as possible for both buyers and sellers.

“For us, it is about you. We work with people, not houses. We strongly believe in supporting your vision for what you want to achieve, and we customize every service as much as possible,” says Nina.

Are you looking to downsize or sell your home, purchase a home for yourself, or invest in a property? Contact Nina and her team for a consultation to discuss the market, best practices, and how they can help navigate it with you. For more information, contact Nina Sable at 508-733-8935, [email protected] or visit their website at www.sablesellshomes.com

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