Buying a home is the biggest purchase you will ever make. Until 1996 any real estate agent in a transaction worked for the seller, either as the listing agent or as a subagent to the seller. The buyer essentially had no representation. But in 1996 the state of Texas began to recognize Buyers Agents whose responsibility was completely to the Buyer. The buyer's representative works for the buyer and has the client's best interests in mind through out the entire real estate transaction.

The broker becomes the buyer's agent by entering into an agreement to represent the buyer, usually through a written buyer representation agreement. The agreement will spell out the parties of the agreement, set forth the area and term of representation, the type of relationship that is authorized and who will pay for the broker's fee. In almost every case the seller pays for the broker's fee through the MLS cooperation in a separate agreement with the listing broker. In the case of new homes, the builder usually pays the brokerage fee.

The Real Estate Buyers Agent Council of the National Association of Realtors recognizes the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation by the designation of the Accredited Buyers Representative or ABR. As such since 1999, I am able to provide many benefits to consumers whom I represent:

• Evaluate the specific needs and wants of the buyer and locate properties that fit those   specifications.
• Assist the buyer in determining the amount that they can afford and show properties in   that price range and locale the consumer has determined.
• Assist in viewing properties and either accompany the client on the showings or preview   the properties on behalf of the client to insure that the identified specifications are met.
• Research the selected properties to identify any problems or issues to help the   consumer in making an informed decision prior to making an appropriate offer on the   property.
• Advise the client on structuring an appropriate offer to purchase the selected property.
• Present the offer to the seller's agent and/or seller on the client's behalf.
• Negotiate on behalf of the buyer client to help obtain the identified property. Keep in mind   that the buyer agent will be doing so with the client's best interest in mind.
• Review all legal documents with the buyer.
• Make recommendations and assistance in securing appropriate financing for the   selected property.
• Provide a list of potential qualified vendors for services needed, such as movers,   inspectors, title companies, insurance agents, carpenters etc.

As a consumer, how often do you buy real estate property? Once, twice, three times in your lifetime? Purchasing real estate is a complex and major transaction with many details to be handled. In the majority of cases, an agent will represent the seller. Wouldn’t you want to have complete and fair representation in the real estate transaction also, especially when it is no cost to you?