Are you on the hunt to buy your dream home? What is homebuyer representation? Why is it important?
Searching for the perfect place to call your own can be an exciting yet daunting journey. But fear not! At Modern Market REALTORS®, we’re here to turn your dream into a reality. We service Fargo ND, Horace ND, West Fargo ND, and Moorhead MN.
Navigating the real estate market on your own can feel overwhelming.
That’s why having a team of expert home buyer’s agents by your side can make all the difference. Meet Jim and Shannon, our dedicated professionals at Modern Market REALTORS®. With over 20 years of combined experience, they specialize in helping clients like you find the home that ticks all the boxes.
Homes For Sale with Jim and Shannon
We Help Home Buyers Find Homes
IDX MLS IDX Listing Disclosure © 2025
The data relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the Broker Reciprocity SM Program of the Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc. The information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Properties subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. ©2024 Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc All rights reserved.
Ready to Buy? Contact Us
Jim and Shannon are here to listen and guide you every step of the way.
But what sets Modern Market REALTORS® apart from the rest? Home buyer representation is simple. We prioritize your needs above all else. From the moment you walk through our doors, Jim and Shannon will greet you with personalized attention and a commitment to finding the perfect home that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
Communication is key in any successful real estate transaction
At Modern Market REALTORS®, we excel in keeping you informed every step of the way. Jim and Shannon understand the importance of clear and timely communication. They’ll be available to answer your questions, provide updates on new listings, and guide you through the process with transparency and professionalism.
Another essential aspect of our approach is active listening.
Jim and Shannon take the time to truly understand your wants, needs, and concerns. By actively listening to your preferences and feedback, they can tailor their search to find properties that meet your exact specifications. This personalized approach ensures that every home they recommend aligns with your vision for your dream home.
Key strengths lie in our negotiating skills
One of our key strengths lies in our negotiating skills honed over two decades of experience. Jim and Shannon are masters at securing the best deals for their clients. Whether it’s negotiating the purchase price, navigating complex contract terms, or advocating for your interests during the closing process, they’ll leverage their expertise to ensure you get the most value out of your investment.
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions
At Modern Market REALTORS®, we understand that buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. That’s why Jim and Shannon are dedicated to providing unparalleled customer service and support from start to finish. Your satisfaction is their top priority, and they’ll go above and beyond to ensure that you find the home of your dreams.
Homebuyer representation: accountability, disclosure, confidentiality, obedience, and care with Jim and Shannon
We are hired directly by our clients and we offer loyalty, accountability, disclosure, confidentiality, obedience, and care to our clients in their transactions. Unlike most real estate brokerages, we have a policy to always work in the best interest of the buyer.
Table of Contents
- Are you on the hunt to buy your dream home?
- Navigating the real estate market on your own can feel overwhelming.
- Jim and Shannon are here to listen and guide you every step of the way.
- Communication is key in any successful real estate transaction
- Another essential aspect of our approach is active listening.
- Key strengths lie in our negotiating skills
- Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions
- Homebuyer representation: accountability, disclosure, confidentiality, obedience, and care with Jim and Shannon
- 8 Most FAQ from homebuyers at Modern Market REALTORS®
- Update For All Home Buyers
Written by Jim Christl and Shannon Barnum of Modern Market REALTORS® for potential homebuyers. We hope that our collaborative effort shines through in providing clear and concise information, empowering readers to make informed decisions in Moorhead’s real estate and Fargo real estate market. Buyers CAN hire an agent like Jim and Shannon who will work exclusively in their best interest.
8 Most FAQ from homebuyers at Modern Market REALTORS®.
Jim and Shannon answer all your questions with NO pressure.
Q: Why should I use a homebuyer’s agent to represent me?
A: Homebuyer’s agents are experts in the real estate market who work exclusively for you, the buyer. They provide personalized guidance, access to listings, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure your best interests are represented throughout the entire home-buying process.
Q: How do homebuyer’s representatives/agents get paid?
A: In most cases, homebuyer’s agents are compensated through a commission split with the seller’s agent. This means you typically don’t pay anything out of pocket for their services. Their commission is typically a percentage of the final sale price, which is paid by the seller at closing.
Q: Can I work with more than one homebuyer’s representative/agent at a time?
A: It’s generally not recommended to work with multiple buyer’s agents simultaneously, as it can lead to conflicts of interest and confusion. By choosing one agent to represent you exclusively, you’ll benefit from their undivided attention and expertise.
Q: How do I choose the right homebuyer’s agent for me?
A: When selecting a homebuyer’s agent, consider factors such as their experience, knowledge of the local market, communication style, and track record of success. It’s essential to find someone you trust and feel comfortable working with, as they’ll be guiding you through one of the most significant financial transactions of your life.
Q: What should I expect from my homebuyer’s representatives/agents during the home-buying process?
A: Your homebuyer’s agent will assist you in finding suitable properties, scheduling and attending viewings, conducting market research, negotiating offers, coordinating inspections, and guiding you through the closing process. They’ll be your advocate every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful home purchase experience.
Q: Can a homebuyer’s agent help me with financing and other aspects of the home purchase?
A: While homebuyer’s agents are not typically mortgage brokers or financial advisors, they can provide valuable insights and referrals to reputable professionals in these areas. They’ll work closely with you and your chosen experts to ensure all aspects of your home purchase are handled efficiently and effectively.
Q: Do I need to sign a contract with a homebuyer’s representative or a home buying agent?
A: Yes, it’s standard practice to sign a buyer’s agency agreement with your chosen agent. This agreement outlines the terms of your relationship, including the duration of the agreement, their commission structure, and the services they’ll provide. It’s essential to review and understand this contract before signing.
Q: What if I’m not satisfied with my homebuyer’s agent?
A: If you’re unhappy with the services provided by your homebuyer’s agent, it’s essential to communicate your concerns openly and honestly with them. In many cases, issues can be resolved through dialogue and clarification. However, if you’re still dissatisfied, you may have the option to terminate the buyer’s agency agreement, depending on the terms outlined in the contract.
Update For All Home Buyers
If you’re a homebuyer working with a Modern Market REALTOR®, you’re partnering with a professional who is ethically bound to act in your best interest. Starting August 17, 2024, you will be asked to sign a written buyer agreement after selecting the real estate professional you want to work with. Here’s what you should know about these agreements:
What is a “written buyer agreement,” and what does it entail?
A written buyer agreement is a contract between you and your real estate professional that details the services they will provide and how they will be compensated for those services.
Why do I need to sign an agreement?
Written buyer agreements are now a nationwide requirement for many real estate professionals, introduced as part of the National Association of REALTORS®’ proposed settlement related to broker commissions. This requirement takes effect on August 17, 2024.
Are these agreements new?
In some areas, yes. While many states have mandated them for years, others have not. Therefore, it’s possible that you or others you know may not have encountered them recently. However, they are now a nationwide requirement for numerous real estate professionals.
Are these agreements negotiable?
Absolutely! You should feel empowered to negotiate any aspect of the agreement with your real estate professional, including the services you wish to receive, the duration of the agreement, and the compensation involved. Compensation is negotiable and not dictated by law. In the written agreement, the compensation should be clearly defined (e.g., $0, a flat fee, a percentage, or an hourly rate)—and not left open-ended or as a range. Only sign an agreement that accurately reflects your understanding with your real estate professional.
How do I benefit from these agreements?
These agreements clearly define the services you can expect from your real estate professional and what they will be compensated for. This clarity helps reduce any potential confusion at the start of your relationship.
When should I sign an agreement?
You will need to enter into a written buyer agreement with your real estate professional before touring a home with them, whether in person or virtually. If you’re simply visiting an open house alone or inquiring about their services, signing an agreement is not required.
Does this mean I have to pay my real estate professional out of pocket?
Not necessarily. While you are responsible for compensating your real estate professional as outlined in your agreement, you can also negotiate for and receive compensation from the seller or their agent.
Do agreements dictate a specific type of relationship with my real estate professional?
No, you can establish any type of business relationship with your real estate professional that is permitted by state law in your area.
Can I modify or terminate an agreement?
Yes. You and your real estate professional can mutually agree to modify the agreement. There may be specific conditions under which you can exit the agreement, so be sure to read its terms and discuss any changes with your real estate professional.
© 2024 Modern Market REALTORS®
