Today I had coffee with another businesswoman, Jennifer, who shared her story of buying a new home. The woman used a REALTOR® to buy the home from a builder in Algonquin. After the contract was signed the agent disappeared not to emerge until the end of the closing when she picked up her commission check.
Jennifer arrived at the home for a walk-through just before the closing only to find a huge mess and some of the work still not completed. Since buying the home she has had several plumbing problems. Her sump pump failed after 13 months due to construction garbage left in it which caused it to overheat.
I asked Jennifer more about her home buying experience and learned that her REALTOR hadn’t recommended that she have a real estate attorney review the builder’s sale contract and represent her at the closing. The REALTOR also didn’t recommend that Jennifer have a home inspection. Using both of these professionals could have saved Jennifer a lot of headaches.
Buying a home is not like other major purchases. You need a team of professionals looking out for your best interests whether it’s new constuction or a resale home. And get a buyer’s agent who will truly work for you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fran Bailey shows, previews and tracks downtown Chicago homes for sale giving her the insights needed to help her clients negotiate the best price and terms. Fran has been quoted in numerous Chicago and national publications. To schedule showings of listings regardless of broker or to contact Fran email her at fran.bailey@bairdwarner.com or call 773.793.4516. Learn More
Fran Bailey, Realtor
