Alan K. Warfield

ABR, CSP

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Real Estate & Insurance Services

Services for Buyers

Every year we get heartfelt thank-you letters from clients who are enjoying their new homes.

We work hard to find properties that meet your dreams as well as your practical needs, houses that do not have expensive hidden surprises that you have to fix, houses with mortgages that you can afford. We make sure all the i's are dotted and t's are crossed to help ensure that settlement proceeds smoothly. Why choose Warfield's?

What is a Buyer's Agent, and why should you hire one?

A buyer's agent has a stringent legal and professional obligation to look out for your financial interests. Until recently, most agents helped the buyer but actually had fiduciary obligation to represent the seller. Warfield's has offered buyer's agent services for many years because we believe it is the most honest and helpful way to serve our clients.

What a skilled Buyer's Agent will do for you:

1. Discuss upfront the buyer/agent relationship and agree on responsibilities, services, and compensation.
2. Evaluate the specific needs and wants of the buyer.
3. Assist the buyer in determining the amount that they can afford (pre-qualify).
4. Locate properties within that price range that fit the buyer's specifications.
5. Assist in viewing properties -- accompany the buyer on the showings, or preview the properties on behalf of the buyer to insure that the identified specifications are met.
6. Research the selected properties to identify any problems or issues to help the buyer make an informed decision prior to making an offer to purchase the property.
7. Advise the buyer on structuring an appropriate offer to purchase the selected property.
8. Present the offer to the seller's agent and the seller on the buyer's behalf.
9. Negotiate on behalf of the buyer to help obtain the identified property always with the buyer's best interests in mind.
10. Assist in securing appropriate financing.
11. Provide references to qualified vendors (e.g. inspectors, movers, attorneys, carpenters, etc.) if these services are needed.
12. Make sure the buyer is prepared for settlement.
13. Most importantly, fully represent the buyer throughout the real estate transaction.

(This list is based on requirements of the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council, of which Alan is a member.)

Before you speak seriously with us, or with any real estate agent, please read Pennsylvania's Consumer Notice (English) ( Spanish) which explains the legal relationship your agent has with you.

Getting Started

As you begin the process of buying a home or property, the first two questions are 1) what do you want and need? and 2) how much can you afford? We'll discuss these at our first meeting, but here are some tips in getting started.

What do I want or need?

Take a piece of paper or open a spreadsheet, and make two columns. On the left side make a NEEDS list: "Don't call us unless the property has X." These are your minimal requirements. On the other side make a WISHES list: "We'd prefer Y but it isn't crucial."

There are several webpages that can help you think through what kind of home or property you want to buy. The one posted on the HUD site is particularly useful: Buying a home--wishlist.

Thinking through your needs, desires, and finances requires a realistic and honest assessment. If your dreams extend way beyond your pocketbook, your real estate search will be long and discouraging. If you are buying with a spouse or partner, you have to sit down and look each other in the eye. If the buyers aren't on the same page, how can your agent be?

What can I afford?

Buying property requires significant resources beyond the downpayment and the monthly mortgage payment. We make sure you've factored in all the costs, and look at what mortgage you will probably be able to obtain. Any discussions you have with us about your financial situation will be kept confidential.

Here are some helpful links