Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa April 2015 | Page 38

FINDING

Personal Property

Shopper
How a buyer’s agent can help
you find the right property
BY JESSICA GLIDDON

I

n a world where people need personal shoppers to
make sure they buy the perfect outfit, it seems a
bit crazy that they put their property purchasing
decisions in the hands of a real estate agent, whose
loyalty remains with the sellers. Enter the buyer’s agent,
a new breed of real estate savants who look out for the
keen property purchaser.
One of the biggest areas of investment for the well
off, property has mostly been ruled by the interests of
property agents, who look after their bottom line before
the needs of their clients. Now, a new phenomenon
known as buyer’s agents lets affluent property buyers
around the world enjoy the services of their own
personal buying assistant.
Many are wary of the fees a buyer’s agent might
charge, but actually in many cases, the buyer does not
even have to pay the agent. Buyer’s agents often split
the commission with the seller’s agent, making their
services almost free to the buyer. Also, the amount of
money a buyer’s agent can save a buyer means they
save more money in the long run. While it is easy to
search for your own property online these days, buyer’s
agents can bring exclusive connections and years of
knowledge to the equation. They can also help advise
on home inspectors and financing companies.
Buyer’s agents do not only work for those interested
in purchasing high-end properties, but they can most
extensively fulfil their position in this realm. To begin
with, many luxury buyers do not actually want to
have to go through the difficulty of finding a property
themselves so are happy to pay a premium to have
someone else do it for them. Then, there are the details
often involved in the purchase of a large property,
which can go beyond the usual considerations.

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April 2015 SA Real Estate Investor

Buyer’s agents essentially act as concierges, often
booking hotels, viewing, and transfers. They are
particularly useful to international property investors,
working as their eyes and ears on the ground. More
than anything, a buyer’s agent can offer independence
and personalise service. It is like having a good friend
who happens to be in the real estate business helping
you to find your perfect property.
Once the property has been purchased, a buyer’s
agent’s role does not end there. Agencies also offer
interior design services, so can ensure every aspect
of the new property is personalised. If the purchaser
spends large amounts of time outside the country, such
an agency can manage a property, ensuring everything
stays running as it should and that nothing falls under
neglect.

“Buyer’s agents can bring
exclusive connections and
years of knowledge to the
equation.”
In an age where we are overwhelmed by choices,
unique services are all the more invaluable. When it
comes to such a large purchase as property, valuable
informational and management services can make the
difference for a happy future in your new abode.

RESOURCES
Hurst and Wills
www.reimag.co.za