Why Using a Buyer's Agent Matters

 (From My Perspective As A Loan Officer)


As a loan officer, I get to see behind the scenes of many home purchases. I see the deals that glide smoothly to closing… and the ones that fall apart at the last minute. One of the biggest differences between the two? A knowledgeable, engaged real estate agent.




What a Good Buyer's Agent Does 

(That Buyers Often Don’t See)


Most buyers think a buyer's agent’s job is just “finding a house.” 

That’s only the surface.

From my side of the transaction, a good buyer's agent:


  • Keeps the deal on track by managing deadlines, paperwork, and contract requirements

  • Communicates clearly with the lender, title company, inspectors, and seller

  • Negotiates smartly on price, repairs, and seller concessions that can directly impact your loan

  • Anticipates problems early, before they become deal-breakers

  • Understands financing timelines, so expectations stay realistic

When an agent understands generally how financing works, the entire process becomes smoother for the buyer.


Why Some Buyers Try to Skip 

a Real Estate Agent


Every so often, a buyer says:

  • “I don’t want to pay commission.”

  • “I can negotiate this myself.”

  • “The listing agent can handle it.”

On paper, that might sound reasonable. In reality, it often creates risk.


Why Skipping A Buyers' Agent Is 

Usually a Bad Idea


From my point of view, buyers without representation often run into problems like:

  • Missing contract deadlines, which can cost earnest money

  • Overpaying, because they didn’t negotiate effectively

  • Poor inspection negotiations, leading to unexpected repair costs

  • Misunderstanding the contract, especially legal language

  • Relying on the seller’s agent, whose legal duty is not to protect the buyer

Without a buyer's agency agreement, the seller’s agent works for the seller — not you. Without your own agent, no one is truly advocating for your interests.


How a Great Buyer's Agent Helps the 

Loan Side of the Transaction


When I work with a strong buyer's agent, it directly benefits the buyer because:


  • Seller concessions are negotiated properly (which can lower closing costs or interest rates)

  • Appraisal issues are handled strategically

  • Repairs are documented correctly for underwriting

  • Everyone stays aligned on timelines

That coordination reduces stress, delays, and last-minute surprises.


The Bottom Line


Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Trying to do it alone to “save money” often costs more — in time, stress, or actual dollars.

In my opinion, a great buyer's agent isn’t optional — they’re a key part of a successful home purchase.

And if you ever need help choosing one, I’m happy to guide you. 

Mark Crunk | NMLS #2267612 | Barrett Financial Group, L.L.C. | NMLS #181106 | 275 E Rivulon Blvd, Suite 200, Gilbert, AZ

85297 | AK AK181106 | CO | MO | NC B-203722 | Equal Housing Opportunity | This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are

subject to credit approval. | nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/181106