Buying your first home can feel like stepping into a world with its own language, rules, and fast-moving parts. From mortgage pre-approval to closing day, the process is packed with decisions—and deadlines—you’ve likely never faced before.
That’s why working with a buyer agent can be one of the smartest first moves you make. But for many first-time buyers, the role of a buyer agent is still a bit of a mystery. What do they do? How are they different from a listing agent? And how do you find the right one?
This article breaks it all down. If you’re preparing to make your first home purchase, here’s what you should know before teaming up with a real estate agent to guide your journey.
What Is a Buyer Agent?
A buyer agent is a licensed real estate professional who represents the interests of the buyer in a real estate transaction. Their job is to help you find a property, evaluate its value, negotiate a fair price, and guide you through each step of the purchase.
Unlike the listing agent—who works on behalf of the seller—a buyer agent is your advocate. They’re not trying to sell you any particular property. Instead, they’re working to help you make the best decision for your needs, goals, and financial situation.
That distinction matters more than most people realize.
What Do They Actually Do?
Many first-time buyers are surprised at how much a buyer agent handles behind the scenes. Here are just a few of the tasks they typically manage:
- Helping you clarify what you want and can afford
- Searching for homes that fit your criteria
- Scheduling and attending showings
- Comparing property values in the area
- Advising on offer strategy and price
- Submitting and negotiating offers
- Coordinating inspections, appraisals, and closing documents
In short, your buyer agent is your project manager from start to finish. They connect the dots between lenders, attorneys, inspectors, and sellers—so you don’t have to juggle everything yourself.
Why It Matters to Work with the Right Agent
Buying your first home isn’t just about signing paperwork. It’s about understanding what you’re getting into. A strong buyer agent doesn’t just tell you what to do—they explain why.
They’ll help you evaluate things like:
- Long-term neighborhood value
- Potential resale factors
- Structural red flags
- Contract language and contingencies
- Timing strategies for offers
You’ll want someone who’s patient enough to answer your questions, experienced enough to spot potential problems, and honest enough to tell you if a home isn’t the right fit.
Professionals like Mikel DeFrancesco at William Raveis Real Estate are often sought out by buyers for this very reason: a grounded, transparent approach can make all the difference.
How They Get Paid
Here’s a common first-time buyer question: “Do I have to pay my agent?”
In most cases, no.
Typically, the buyer agent’s commission is paid by the seller, as part of the agreement with the listing agent. That means you get professional representation without having to write an extra check at closing.
However, it’s important to clarify this up front with your agent. Some agreements may include conditions or exceptions, so read the paperwork carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
How to Choose the Right Buyer Agent
Not all real estate professionals are the same—and not every real estate broker is a great match for a first-time buyer. You want someone who understands your unique perspective and takes the time to walk you through each step.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing your agent:
- Experience with first-time buyers
- Familiarity with your target location
- Availability and responsiveness
- Strong communication skills
- A clear explanation of the homebuying process
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during an initial conversation. You’re hiring someone to represent your best interests in one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Make sure they’re someone you trust.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Buyer Agent
To help guide your decision, here are five questions you can ask during a consultation:
- How long have you worked as a buyer agent in this area?
- How do you help clients decide on a fair offer price?
- What’s your availability like for showings and communication?
- Can you walk me through the homebuying process, step by step?
- How do you handle competitive situations like bidding wars?
These questions can reveal not only the agent’s knowledge, but also how well they explain things—an important trait for first-time buyers navigating unfamiliar terrain.
Common Misunderstandings About Buyer Agents
There are a few misconceptions that first-time buyers sometimes have. Let’s clear them up:
- You don’t need to wait until you find a house to contact a buyer agent. In fact, it’s better to start working together early.
- A buyer agent doesn’t “push” you to buy. Their job is to help you make informed decisions—not to close a sale.
- You can (and should) ask questions. A good real estate agent welcomes curiosity and wants you to feel confident every step of the way.
The better your understanding, the more empowered you’ll be throughout the process.
What to Expect Once You’re Under Contract
Once your offer is accepted, your agent still has plenty of work to do. Expect them to help with:
- Scheduling a home inspection and reviewing the results
- Coordinating with the lender and appraiser
- Ensuring contract deadlines are met
- Answering questions about disclosures, title, and insurance
- Preparing you for closing day logistics
This is where a well-organized real estate broker really shines. They don’t just get you to the finish line—they help you get there with confidence and clarity.
Final Thoughts
Working with a buyer agent is one of the smartest moves a first-time homebuyer can make. With the right real estate professional by your side, you’ll not only find a property that fits your needs—you’ll better understand every step of the process that gets you there.
When choosing an agent, look for someone who listens well, communicates clearly, and prioritizes your long-term success. Professionals like Mikel DeFrancesco – William Raveis Real Estate understand the importance of building relationships, not just closing deals.
With thoughtful guidance and the right support, your first home won’t just be a purchase—it will be the beginning of something great.
