We won't lie: The process can be complex and stressful--especially if you are a first-time buyer. A real estate professional can make all of the difference.

You may have heard of listing agents, selling agents and buyer's agents. What is a buyer's agency?

Buyer's agents are true to their name. They help buyers find the right home for them.

Continue reading to learn more about how a real-estate buyer's agent can assist you and how to choose the right one.

The benefits of using a buyer’s agent to buy real estate

"A buyer's representative will help you navigate the home-buying process and be available for any questions or concerns," states Shane Wilcox a Realtor(r), with Partners Trust. These are some of the many things that a buyer's representative can do:

• Search for the right property. Once the client has determined their needs and budget, the agent will arrange appointments to show them homes that meet the criteria. To help buyers choose the right home for them, the agent will explain the pros and cons of each option.
• Make an offer. The buyer’s agent will help clients decide on a price and present it to their agent. "Then they will negotiate for you and prepare the contracts for your," states Matt Laricy a Chicago Realtor with Americorp Real Estate. The agent's expertise in negotiating deals will save you money and prevent you from falling for pitfalls such as a fixer-upper, which can be costly.
• Refer to other professionals. Your buyer's agent should be able refer you to trusted mortgage brokers, real-estate attorneys, home inspectors and other real estate professionals. This will help speed up the process and make it easier to sell your real estate.
• Avoid setbacks. A buyer's agent will advise you how to proceed with the sale and act as a buffer between yourself and the sellers and their broker. It is extremely beneficial to have an experienced professional keep calm and offer productive solutions if negotiations get heated or hostile.

What is the difference between a buyer's agent and a listing agent?

Buyer's agents have a legal obligation to assist buyers. Listing agents, the real estate agents representing the home selling agent, have a fiduciary responsibility to the seller.

"That's why you should get an agent to represent your interests as a buyer," explains Alex Cortez a Realtor at Wailea Village Properties, Kihei, HI.

Think about it like this: If you were being sued, would the attorney you hired be the same as the one suing you?" No. It is important to have someone who will fight for your rights and interests."

Imagine that you were at an open house and approached the agent. While you might be raving about the house and wanting to purchase it, you should also mention that you need to move quickly because you are pregnant and will need to decorate the nursery as soon as possible or because your lease expires in a few months realtor Charlottesville VA.

An agent for the seller could use this information against your by telling sellers that their clock is ticking and they should not budge on asking price.

But, make the same confession to your buyer's agent.