With the recent change in real estate rules that require buyer agreements to be completed before an agent begins working on a client’s behalf, some buyers (and sellers) may be questioning the true value of a buyer’s agent.

With home listings on the internet, why does a buyer need an agent anyway?

Let us give you some examples of the true value a good buyer’s agent provides.

Last year, we worked with out-of-town buyers who were trying to decide between two properties for their offer. One was available at list price, while the other would require a bid above list. They asked us which would be easier to resell if they decided to explore a different area in town after a year or two. We advised them to go with the second home, despite the need to bid higher.

We successfully helped them secure that second home, beating out four other offers. Although they ended up paying $70,000 over the list price, we delivered on our promise and resold the home a year later, even in a tougher market, for 6% more than their purchase price.

Additionally, we assisted them in securing an off-market lake property after they realized how much they wanted to be by the water. Again, they were concerned about overpaying. We reassured them that the property was priced low, a fact confirmed when the appraisal came in significantly higher than their purchase price, aligning with our valuation of the home.

During the heated market of the pandemic when bidding wars were common, a knowledgeable buyer’s agent was one of the best advantages a buyer had. Armed with true market valuations, proven negotiating strategies and a trusted reputation with other area Realtors, we were able to position our clients successfully in many cases where their offer was accepted…again, as long as we felt confident they were not paying over market value. While today’s market has cooled down since those days, a well-priced home in good condition still generates substantial buyer interest. Once again, it behooves a buyer to work with a hyperlocal, respected and connected agent who can position them in a competitive situation, and often times find properties off market.

We take pride in the value we offer our clients both on the listing as well as the buying side of moving to Lake Oswego and the Portland metro area. If you are considering moving to Lake Oswego, give one of us a call. We’d love to put our experience to work helping to make your next move your best one!

Kevin Costello 503.939.9801

Riley Costello 971.322.6205