All Realtors are trained and educated to help their clients to buy and sell their homes. Did you know that Realtors can go beyond their initial education to earn a specialized designation that positions them as an expert in helping Buyers to make the best purchase possible? The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is a highly focused course that gives Realtors advanced tools and skills in Buyer representation.
In my own business, helping Buyers is my main focus. The majority of my clients are first-time Buyers or Buyers that I previously worked with. I decided to focus on Buyer representation early on because my favourite part of being a Realtor is seeing that look on a Buyers’ face when they walk into the house that is meant to be their home! Earning and maintaining my ABR® has given me the skills I need to help Buyers get their dream home on a budget and on their terms.
When you are getting ready to buy a home, look for Realtors that have earned their ABR®. This designation demonstrates their commitment to the Buyer. An ABR® is looking to serve you, not sell you on something that does not meet your needs. Specific competencies that an ABR® brings to the table include:
- Strong and effective negotiation skills to help you make an offer you are comfortable with and that the Seller will accept, and
- Current industry knowledge alongside up to date market and sales information that will help them to determine if a property is priced fairly.
For myself, by focusing on representing Buyers, I am able to devote all my time and attention to helping them find the perfect home. Since I do not typically list many houses, I have the time it takes to tour my clients through all the properties they want to see and obtain the most up to date information about area sales. Maybe most importantly, I have the time to sit with each of my Buyers and really listen to what they are looking for.
When you are ready to buy your next home, take the time to find an ABR®. Check out the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council website for some great information and to help you find an ABR® in your area. Call me anytime to learn more about how I can help you find your pathway home.