Meeting an OBX Realtor

So you’ve fallen in love with the Outer Banks and now thinking of a purchase. You likely have friends who own here and recommend an agent or perhaps you called a realty company that has a house you’d like to see. Here are a few things you should expect when meeting an OBX Realtor for the first time.

Agency Discussion

It’s a rule that a North Carolina real estate agent has to work as an agent for someone in the transaction. Since they have to represent someone, they’d much rather represent you. That way they’ll look out for your interests instead of the seller’s interests. In almost all cases, allowing a North Carolina real estate agent to represent you does not affect your cost of purchasing the property. When you first meet your Realtor, you should expect them to ask if they can represent you instead of the seller.

Sign a Form

Recently, it became the policy of the National Association of Realtors to require an agency agreement in writing between buyers and Realtors prior to showing them property.  Here on the Outer Banks, the local Realtor association will fine its members $500 they show you a house without some sort of written agency agreement.  That agreement will state who the Realtor represents. Most times it also states that this buyer’s agent will get paid by the seller if the buyer purchases a property.  You can expect an agent to ask you to sign a form prior to showing you homes here.

Sharing Your Interests

A good local Realtor will listen to you and pick up on what you want and need in an Outer Banks property.  Naturally, your comments will generate questions. It’s a good idea to candidly respond. Once the agent has a better feel for what you are looking for, it’s common for them to suggest a property that better suits your goals. They’ll also likely provide you with information that results in you removing a specific area from your search.  It could be something as simple as an area being flood prone or something more nuanced. Realtors know the pros and cons of each area that you might not know if you have not spent years here during all different seasons. You can expect your Realtor to ask you questions to better understand what you are looking for.

With the final goal being having a home on the beach that you’ll enjoy for years and years, knowing what to expect when first meeting an Outer Banks Realtor starts this journey off on the right foot.  At Scott Team Realty, we strive to make your buying experience as pleasant as possible.