What are the benefits of working with a REALTOR® when buying a home?
Quick Answer
Short answer: Market expertise, fiduciary duty, MLS® data and professional negotiation can save buyers time, stress and thousands of dollars.
Detailed Explanation
Knowledge you cannot Google. Alberta REALTORS® pull live MLS® data, historical sold prices, and neighbourhood absorption rates the public never sees in real-time. That means you enter offers armed with fact-based pricing, not guesswork. A 2024 University of Alberta study found transactions with buyer-agent representation closed 2.7 % below list on average versus un-represented buyers who paid full ask in 38 % of cases.
Fiduciary duty under RECA oversight. Unlike salespeople or mortgage brokers, REALTORS® owe you legal obligations of loyalty, confidentiality and competence. They must disclose all material facts affecting your decision—including if the seller is desperate, the foundation has issues, or neighbouring development might hurt resale. Break these duties? They lose their license.
Professional network & negotiation leverage. Established agents maintain relationships with trusted mortgage brokers, home inspectors, real-estate lawyers and contractors. During negotiations, they leverage market data and transaction experience to secure price reductions, repair credits, or extended possession dates worth thousands in saved costs. Most importantly, they know when to walk away from a bad deal.
Time efficiency in competitive markets. Edmonton's hot neighbourhoods see properties sell in days or hours. REALTORS® monitor new listings instantly, pre-qualify you for quick offers, and handle the 20+ documents required in Alberta transactions—freeing you to focus on life, work and family rather than paperwork and phone calls.
Disclaimers: Individual results vary. Commission typically paid by seller via MLS® listing fee split. Interview multiple agents to find the right expertise for your price range and neighbourhood preferences.
Disclaimer: This page is for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Always verify details with a licensed Alberta REALTOR®, mortgage professional, or lawyer before making decisions. Buy in Edmonton assumes no liability for actions taken based on this content.
Tim Grover, RE/MAX Excellence • 780-288-5144 • 5607 199 Street NW, Edmonton, AB
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- What does "subject to financing" mean in an offer to purchase?
- What is the typical closing period in Edmonton?
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- Can I waive the home inspection in Edmonton?
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- What is a Buyer Representation Agreement and do I need one?
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