DID YOU KNOW THERE IS A DIFFERENCE???

So, you hear the terms customer and client being said by REALTORS, but do you know what they actually mean?  Yes....there is a difference...a BIG difference!

Here's a visual aid for you.  Which would YOU rather be!?!?

BUYER - CUSTOMER                                                                BUYER - CLIENT

*Honesty                                                                                  *Honesty

*Complete loyalty to seller's needs                                          *Complete loyalty to buyer's needs

*Relay to seller all information received                                 *Keep information confidential -

from buyer                                                                                  buyer can talk freely

*focus on our seller-client's needs in selling;                          *Consider alternative solutions in find-

limit properties to MLS only                                                     ing property to fit the buyer's needs 

*Less attention given in searching new listings;                     *Given first opportunity to view new

show buyers properties listed strictly within buyers's               listings

pre-qualified affordability range                                              *All properties are available for

*Disclose just material facts regarding                                      showing consideration

properties discussed                                                                 *full disclosure of all facts and 

*No advice regarding property, only the facts                           pertinent information

*Get the best price for the seller and                                       *Advice and opinion along with facts;

 fulfill the seller's needs                                                             educate the buyer

*Cannot give an "opinion of value" (CMA)                           *Make every attempt to find the best

 unless it supports the seller's listing price                                property for the buyer and fulfill the 

*No price counseling                                                                buyer's needs

*Suggestions made regarding financing or                             *Volunteer an "opinion of value"

any other terms must benefit the seller                                      (CMA)/specific property value

*Prepare offer on behalf of seller                                            *Provide price counseling

*Attempt to strengthen the seller's                                          *Suggestions made in buyer-client's

negotiating position                                                                   best interests

*Attempt to solve problems and close                                   *Prepare offer on behalf of buyer

the transaction to satisfy the seller                                         *Negotiate on behalf of buyer

                                                                                               *Attempt to strengthen the buyer's

                                                                                                 negotiating position

                                                                                              *Attempt to solve problems and close the

                                                                                                transaction to satisfy the buyer

As you can see....you are only represented when you have a buyer's representation agreement signed with the REALTOR!  Don't let the largest purchase you will ever make be handled by someone that represents the seller!

If you are in the market to purchase a home, call me to help you with this process and REPRESENT YOU!

Tina Backus, REALTOR, ABR, GRI, TAHS

(325)513-6990

tina.backusrealtor@gmail.com

www.tinabackus.com