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avigating the complex landscape of home buying requires a trusted guide, especially in today's fiercely competitive market. A savvy real estate agent can be the difference between a smooth transaction and a minefield of potential pitfalls. As Melvin Vieira, a seasoned broker and former head of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board, notes, venturing into home sales without an agent is akin to entering a courtroom without counsel – a recipe for disaster.

    A reliable agent can safeguard buyers from missteps like shoddy inspections and unscrupulous lenders. They work in tandem with attorneys to ensure a clear title and reputable financing. "It's all about having someone who has your back," Vieira emphasizes.

    The recent law change, effective August 2024, now requires homebuyers to engage an agent at their own expense – a shift from the previous arrangement where sellers partially covered the buyer's agent fee. This new dynamic means buyers must carefully select an agent who will advocate for their interests.

    Sandrine Deschaux, a veteran real estate professional with two decades of experience in Greater Boston, estimates that agent fees typically range between 2.5% and 3% of the final property price. "It's not one-size-fits-all," she notes. "Buyers can negotiate the terms to suit their needs."

    Ultimately, an effective agent is a partner who understands the buyer's risk tolerance and provides emotional support throughout the process. As Deschaux puts it, "They need someone to hold their hand, even be a therapist if needed."