Can I Buy a House Without a Realtor?

5 Risks of Buying a House Without a Realtor

by Joy Bowman, Lead Buyer’s Agent, Home with Sherry Team

You’re a pro with online searches.  You’re familiar with different neighborhoods in the area you’re searching. Maybe you’ve even purchased a home (or two) in the past. So, do you need a real estate agent to buy a house? I can certainly understand the temptation to buy without using one.

But hear me out. With years of experience selling homes in and around Atlanta and the northern suburbs, I’ve learned a few things. I can say confidently that there are risks to buying a house without a realtor on your side. In this blog post, I’ll shed some light on potential pitfalls and offer insights on how an agent can help you avoid them.

1. You’ve Been Had: Protecting Your Interests

Falling in love with a property’s aesthetics is natural but overlooking underlying maintenance issues can lead to buyer’s remorse. Keep in mind that a listing agent represents the seller’s interests. A buyer’s agent is dedicated to safeguarding your best interests. They’ll bring a discerning eye honed by experience, enabling them to identify hidden defects and maintenance concerns that you might miss. There are various inspections available for homes, and your agent can help you navigate these assessments and fully understand the condition of the home you’re purchasing. From identifying minor fixes to recognizing major repairs that could get expensive, your agent’s fiduciary duty ensures that you make informed decisions with peace of mind.

2. Overpaying: Securing the Best Deal

Negotiating the purchase price of a home can be a daunting task, especially when facing a seasoned listing agent. A proficient buyer’s agent has the negotiation skills and market expertise to advocate for a fair deal on your behalf. By leveraging their knowledge of local market trends and property values, they can help you avoid overpaying. Secondarily, if you find yourself in a multiple-offer situation, a good buyer’s agent will know the factors – other than more money – that go into making a winning offer.

3. Poor Resale Value: Planning for the Future

You may think this is your forever home, but for one reason or another, it probably isn’t. Anticipating the potential resale value of your prospective home is a strategic consideration that can impact your long-term investment. A reputable buyer’s agent understands the factors that influence a property’s marketability and resale potential. By aligning your preferences with market insights, they can guide you towards a home that not only meets your current needs but also holds strong appeal for future buyers, safeguarding your investment.

4. You’re Sitting in Traffic: Navigating Neighborhood Dynamics

Beyond the walls of a home, the neighborhood and surrounding area play a pivotal role in your overall homeownership experience. A knowledgeable buyer’s agent is well-versed in local traffic patterns, upcoming developments, and neighborhood nuances. By tapping into their expertise, you can steer clear of potential pitfalls such as nightmarish commutes or poor-performing schools and make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

5. You’re Next to a Retention Pond: Buying New Construction

The allure of new construction is undeniable, and the on-site agent seems so helpful. They may even offer you a deal on one of the remaining lots. There’s a reason those lots are less expensive! The sales agent works for the builder, and it’s their job is to get every lot, even the less-than-ideal ones, sold. A buyer’s agent will help you evaluate new construction so that you don’t pay too much for upgrades, make the wrong selections, or settle for one of those bad lots.

There are so many things to consider!

Navigating the real estate market in suburban Atlanta on your own could end up being overwhelming. That’s why finding the right real estate agent is essential. Look for an agent who is not only knowledgeable about the local market but also shares your vision for an ideal home. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Roswell or a lakefront living on Lake Lanier, a good agent can guide you through various communities and help you find a property that fits your lifestyle and preferences.

Ready to get started on your homebuying journey with confidence? Our team of skilled buyer’s agents is ready to help you find your next home. Reach out to us today and put our experience to work for you.

Let’s talk!

About Joy. Over a career in North Atlanta spanning more than 2 decades, Joy has worked with everyone from first-time homebuyers to million-dollar-plus buyers. In that time, she’s seen just about everything you can imagine. (Ask her about the snake . . .) At this point, nothing ruffles her feathers. Clients appreciate her unflappable nature, especially when deals get dicey. It keeps them coming back to her again and again. They trust her enough to refer her to their friends, family, and coworkers, the absolute gold standard for any agent.