Buying A Home - Step 2 - Schedule Your Buyer Consultation!
- Barbara Reagan
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Buying a House Isn't Like Grabbing a Box of Cereal
It might sound obvious, but it’s a good reminder — buying a home isn’t something most people do very often. In fact, according to the National Association of REALTORS®, the average person stays in their home for about 10 years! So it makes total sense that most buyers choose to work with a real estate agent to help navigate the process and negotiate the best deal.
One of the best ways to find the right agent? Schedule a buyer consultation!
How a Buyer Consultation Can Help You
There’s no one-size-fits-all method for picking the perfect agent. Recommendations from friends, family, or even online reviews can be helpful — but nothing beats sitting down one-on-one (either in person or virtually) to see if there’s a real connection.
Is a buyer consultation free?
Most of the time, yes! Agents usually offer buyer consultations for free as a way for both sides to get to know each other. If you decide to move forward and officially work together (usually by signing a buyer’s agency agreement), then any fees will be discussed at that point. But if you decide not to move forward after your consultation, you typically won’t owe anything.
What Will You Talk About During a Buyer Consultation?
Here’s a quick look at what’s usually covered, so you know what to expect and what to ask:
The Home Buying Process & Timeline
Your agent should walk you through the entire homebuying journey — from getting preapproved to making an offer, negotiating, scheduling inspections, and getting to the closing table. They’ll also want to understand your personal timeline — for example, do you need to move quickly, or are you timing your move around school schedules?
What’s Happening in Your Local Market
They should have a solid understanding of local trends — like whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, how much earnest money is typically expected, what price ranges are moving fast, and how common things like seller concessions are.
Getting Preapproved
Preapproval is a big step! Your agent should explain the difference between prequalification (an estimate) and preapproval (verified with documents and credit checks). Many sellers won't even consider an offer without a real preapproval letter!
Your Dream Home Wish List
A good agent will ask lots of questions about what you’re looking for — not just bedrooms and bathrooms, but lifestyle needs too. If they aren’t asking questions, that could be a red flag.
What They Bring to the Table
This is your chance to hear what services they offer, how they’ll communicate with you, how quickly they can move when you’re ready to make an offer, and what sets them apart from other agents.
How Fees and Payments Work
Traditionally, the seller covers agent commissions, but things can vary. Your agent should explain how they get paid, if there are any upfront costs, and how long you’re expected to work with them if you sign an agreement.
Interviewing Agents? Here Are Some Good Questions to Ask:
How much experience do you have in the area I want to buy?
Have you negotiated purchases in my price range?
What should I know about the local housing market?
Based on my situation, what advice would you give me?
How do you prefer to communicate and when are you available?
If I’m ready to make an offer, how quickly can you move?
What services do you provide?
How do you get paid and what is your fee structure?
Meeting Online? That Works Too!
Many agents now offer virtual buyer consultations, which is a great way to talk to multiple agents quickly and find someone you click with. Some services, like Rocket Homes®, can even match you with a partner agent if you want a little help getting started.
After the Meeting: How to Know if It Went Well
After your consultations, ask yourself:
Did the agent feel easy to talk to?
Buying a home is a big deal. You want someone you can communicate easily with and who “gets” you.
Did they clearly explain the home buying process?
A knowledgeable agent should make you feel more confident, not more confused. They’re your guide, teacher, and advocate rolled into one.
Did they understand what you’re looking for?
An agent who listens carefully will help you avoid wasting time on homes that just don’t fit your needs.
Bottom Line: Use a Buyer Consultation to Find Your Perfect Match
Don’t be shy about interviewing multiple agents. Finding the right Realtor® means having someone in your corner who understands your needs, communicates well, and can guide you confidently through the entire process. And don’t forget — getting preapproved early on will help you and your agent start house hunting with a clear budget in mind.
Ready to get started? Let’s chat and find your perfect home together!
