As with any service, working with a professional is always a smart move. While you may think you know all there is to buying a home, there are a lot of nuances to the biz that may not cross your mind as a purchaser. Here are our top 5 reasons why you should always buy with an agent.

1. THERE’S NO COST

When buying a home, you pay zero fees to use an agent. Going about this journey on your own may actually cost you more because you may end up making a critical mistake or end up with something you don’t like. Why wouldn’t you take advantage of this free perk and have someone on your side who lives and breathes real estate?

2. BROADER SEARCH

A buyer agent has the ability to present you with properties that might not even be on the market because of their industry networks. They can cast a much broader search of listings than what you can achieve on your own and hone in on details of your search criteria, presenting you with more choice and properties that you might not have otherwise considered.

3. GUIDANCE AND INSIGHT

Having an experienced real estate agent helping you with your search means they can give you guidance and insight on what you’re actually purchasing. They’ll know which buildings are reputable, which areas or properties will best suit your lifestyle, and why certain floor plans or features are favourable come resale. Buying with an agent means you reduce your chances of making a critical error on what you buy and what you pay. They can understand and interpret prices for you so that you know your dollar is being well spent. Beyond that, buyer agents have insight on neighbourhoods, the economy, interest rates, and are able to ensure you have all your ducks in a row to secure the property you want the moment you find it.

4. SAVE TIME

Shopping for a home is a time consuming process. First, you have to navigate through the vast array of active listings, then you have to schedule viewings or arrange your weekends around open houses — and that’s all before putting in an offer. There’s a reason buyer agents exist: to make the process hassle-free and efficient. Not only can they send you daily prospect matches based on your search criteria, but they will also book all of your viewings for you. It’s like having the best personal assistant, and they don’t cost a dime.

5. THEY’RE YOUR ADVOCATE

When making an offer on a property, a buyer agent represents you. In Toronto’s hot real estate market, you’ll want someone who can advocate for your best interests versus you trying to negotiate with the selling agent. They’re experience in negotiations and their industry knowledge ensures you’re able to secure the best possible price.