Exclusive Buyer Agents Touted in Newsweek

Home buyers really do need the help of a buyer's agent in a buyer's market, according to a recent article "Real Estate: Call Your Agent," by Linda Stern, which appears in the July 16, 2007 edition of Newsweek.

The author cites a couple of reasons why those working without an agent may lose out. Without an agent to search the MLS on their behalf, house hunters may be missing out on properties which may be of interest. Also, by utilizing an agent who is working on their behalf, home buyers may get a better deal.

The author does not suggest using just any buyer's agent, instead recommending that home buyers seek out the services of an exclusive buyer agent who is a member of the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents. Stephen Brobeck, of the Consumer Federation of America, warns that agents whose firms also list properties for sale may steer clients to company listings first, which Brobeck calls "an irreconcilable conflict of interest".

At Buyer's Broker of Northern Michigan, LLC, we are true exclusive buyer agents. We are members of the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents and do not list properties for sale or represent sellers. We are completely loyal to our buyer clients. We are committed to protecting our clients' best interests and negotiating the best possible deal on their behalf.

If you are in the market for a Northern Michigan home or vacation property, experience the difference an exclusive buyer agent can make! Find out what Newsweek, Consumer Reports, Kiplinger's Personal Finance, etc. are talking about when they recommend that home buyer's use an exclusive buyer agent. Give us a call toll free at (877) 228-9664 or (877) 2 BUY NMI. We look forward to the opportunity to be of service!

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Things to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Amy Hoak, a personal finance writer at Marketwatch.com has written an interesting article for those considering the purchase of a vacaton home, entitled "Summer Lovin'."

The article has great tips and information for those considering the purchase of a second home. However, as a real estate attorney and broker who specializes in representing vacation home buyers, I have to comment on one suggestion offered in the article. Instead of a vacation home buyer looking for an agent who specializes in selling vacation homes, I would suggest they contact an agent who specializes in representing vacation home buyers. What a concept!

This is an issue pertaining to the broader real estate market as well. I believe that educated real estate consumers, when given a choice, will turn to someone whom they can trust to represent their interests when purchasing a property, as opposed to the sellers' interests.

Exclusive buyer agents, those who represent only homebuyers, and never sellers, have been recommended recently by Consumer Reports and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. To learn more about exclusive buyer agency, feel free to give us a call or drop us a line. We would be happy to help you find and get a great deal on a wonderful Northern Michigan vacation property.

Kiplinger's Highlights Exclusive Buyer Agents

Exclusive buyer agents are highlighted in the latest edition of Kiplinger's Personal Finance. According to the article, "Unlike traditional agents, EBAs don't work for listing brokers, so they avoid the risk of dual agency -- when one broker represents both parties. EBAs are still paid by the seller, but they can promise to represent your interests exclusively throughout the transaction and help you negotiate the lowest price."

The mainstream media finally seems to be catching on to the idea of exclusive buyer agency. Consumer Reports featured exclusive buyer agents, and the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents, in its May, 2005 edition. Exclusive buyer agency has also been mentioned in numerous additional publications recently, including the Wall Street Journal.