This section provides information to consider when preparing to purchase a home.

As your home is most likely your most valuable investment, I highly recommend the following minimum requirements when choosing an agent to represent you:

1. Always use a Buyer's Agent.

As you will see in the section on Agency, there are different ways to be represented when purchasing a home. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you use a Designated Buyer's Agent. By using a Designated Buyer's Agent you have someone working in YOUR best interests.


2. I recommend you use an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR).

The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation. This coveted designation is awarded by the Real Estate BUYER'S AGENT Council (REBAC), an affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS, to real estate practitioners who meet the specified educational and practical experience criteria.

To ensure your agent is an ABR, please check http://www.rebac.org


3. I recommend you use an e-PRO certified Internet Professional.

An e-PRO is a REALTORŪ who has successfully completed the e-PRO training program for real estate professionals. Endorsed by the National Association of REALTORSŪ, the e-PRO course teaches professionals the nuts and bolts of working with real estate on-line: Web sites, e-mail, on-line tools, and most of all, what today's consumer really wants.


What is an e-PRO and why should you use one? http://www.epronar.com/whyuseepro.htm

To ensure your agent is an e-PRO, please check http://www.epronar.com/rostermap.htm



4. Ensure you discuss your expectations, requirements and concerns with your agent which will allow for a pleasant home buying experience.


My pledge to you as a Designated Buyer's Agent is to work relentlessly in YOUR best interests to assist you in acquiring the best home available that meets your needs, requirements and price. Feel free to contact me anytime and put me to work for you! -Thanks!

Mike Nielsen