There are lots of articles warning people about the problem of using a
friend as a real estate agent. Concerns range from their level of experience
to the impact it may have on their friendship if something goes wrong.
While it is important to use an agent, friend or not, who is experienced and
professional, using a friend might be a benefit. There are many benefits to
using a friend as your agent.
· Trust – First and foremost, it’s critical to trust your agent. Using a
friend assumes a pre-existing level of trust that should ensure transparency
throughout the process.
· Personalized Service – A friend is likely to offer a highly
personalized service level, customized to your needs and preferences.
· Understanding – A friend will understand your lifestyle, desires, and
priorities. They can better advise you on the best course during the real
estate process.
· Comfort Level – Along with trust, working with friends assumes a
certain comfort level. You may find that sharing your fears and needs is
easier with a friend.
· Flexibility – A friend will often be more flexible with their schedules
and approach.
· Loyalty – Finally, friends want the best for you. They will not push a
poor deal forward just to get a commission. They will advocate strongly for
you and ensure your interests are protected.
Using a friend could be a big advantage in a real estate transaction.
However there could also be concerns about maintaining the relationship if
the process has challenges. Be upfront with your concerns and discuss in
advance how to address them. This way, you will have strong
representation during the transaction.