There are several ways you can get in to see a house listed for sale.
OPEN HOUSE
The easiest way to see a home listed for sale is to go to an open house if there is one scheduled… you just walk in and look around. Most likely you will be asked to sign in, but there is no obligation. There also is no privacy, as there could be other people also at the open house… and the timing is usually limited.
WITH A REALTOR
For a private showing on your time schedule, you can contact your Realtor to schedule a showing of any home listed in the MLS, even if it is listed by a different Realtor or broker. If you found it online, there most likely will be a Realtor or two listed who will be happy to schedule a showing with you if you are not already working with a Realtor.
In order for a Realtor to show you any and all properties listed for sale in the MLS there are two documents you must sign…
- Agency Relationships in Real Estate Transactions – a disclosure (not a contract) of the different types of relationships in real estate transactions in Minnesota
And either a touring agreement or a buyer representation contract…
- Touring Services Agreement – an agreement for touring properties that lasts for 7 days with no fees and no obligation
- Buyer Representation Contract – this is a fiduciary agreement that allows a Realtor to represent you not only when showing you any property listed in the MLS, but also when you are ready to make an offer; terms are negotiable between you and your Realtor
Most Realtors will also ask if you have financing preapproval so you only visit properties you are qualified to purchase… and are ready to make an offer when you the right home. A financing preapproval letter or verification of funds if you are paying cash is required with every offer.
Ready to stop browsing online and start seriously looking? Find a Realtor who is simpatico to learn about the process and get started!
Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results – shensrud@homesmsp.com
