Given the bad apples of the profession, even those buyer agents that perceive of themselves as the cream of the crop may not be the best fit for clients. Based on recent experience with an ABR, GRI, multi-million dollar buyer agent, I have come up with a list of criteria that potentional buyers should consider: I want a buyer agent who only moves at 90 miles per hour at any point in the process if and when I say so. The buyer agent must be experienced and have a proven track record of sales in the areas I am interested in. I want a buyer agent who is ABR certified and familiar with REBAC. The buyer agent must be upfront with everything : I must see all forms regardless of nature or applicability at the first meeting and I will decide whether or not to use a form. The buyer agent works around my schedule and does not ask me to meet at their location all the time or force me to drive around on my own looking at properties. The buyer agent must not dismiss any criteria as being marginal or repairs as being "cosmetic/ maintenance". Painting, cauking, and fireplace cleaning can all be considered as required repairs on a property as determined by the buyer and not the agent. The buyer agent will not pressure me at any point of the process. The buyer agent will pay attention to detail and be willing to go the extra mile to investigate a property for additional information without buyer inquiry. The buyer agent must be knowledgeable about the area, make the effort to understand the buyer's situation, and have a plan for approaching situations. The buyer agent should not assume anything and act on the buyer's interest. For example, the buyer agent shall provide the contract ahead of time and give the buyer ample days to read the contract before writing or marking out any portion of the contract. At the risk of steering, the buyer agent should preview the available properties according to features I set. The buyer agent shall not prematurely remove or exclude portions of the contract. The agent will make recommendations only and wait for buyer approval. The buyer agent will compile a list of deficiencies in a property independently of the home inspector based on their experience. The buyer agent shall not use sales tactics on their client. Guilt trips, projected time deadlines, and excuse of a "seller's market" are reason for terminating the relationship.

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