Buying a home in New York City is exciting — and complex. With tough competition, co-op board approvals, and unique taxes, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s why working with a buyer’s agent is one of the smartest decisions you can make when buying a home in NYC.

Here are five powerful reasons to have a buyer’s agent on your side when purchasing your next place in the city. And if you’re still not convinced, check out these success stories from buyers who worked with an agent.

Prefer to watch instead of read? Check out this episode of StreetEasy Home School for the full breakdown.

1. A buyer’s agent works for you, not the seller

Most sellers are represented by a listing agent whose job is to get the highest price for their client. Their responsibility is to the seller — not the buyer. With a buyer’s agent, you gain an advocate who represents only your best interests. They’ll help you secure the right home at the right price while looking out for you throughout the transaction.

2. They simplify the NYC home-buying process

Buying a home in NYC involves more than just browsing listings. Co-op boards, condo assessments, mansion taxes, detailed contracts, and more all add layers of complexity.

A buyer’s agent can help you:

• Schedule and attend open houses
• Build a strong co-op board package
• Manage inspections and paperwork
• Spot hidden red flags
• Connect with trusted attorneys and mortgage professionals

Their expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes and keeps the process moving smoothly.

3. They provide local market expertise

The NYC real estate market moves fast. Thankfully, a seasoned buyer’s agent knows the latest market trends, neighborhood dynamics, and realistic pricing.

What’s more, experienced buyer’s agents have local NYC market expertise down to the neighborhood, block, or even the building. Using their hyper-local knowledge, they can tell you if a listing is overpriced, find hidden gems, and ensure you’re making informed decisions. Their insights give you a competitive edge in a fast-moving market.

4. They’re skilled negotiators

A home in NYC is an expensive purchase. The stakes are high, and negotiations can get intense. Your buyer’s agent will negotiate with the seller on your behalf. They’ll help you craft a strong offer, counter strategically, and negotiate everything from purchase price to closing costs. By leveraging comparable data and industry expertise, they maximize your opportunities and protect your investment.

5. They save you time and stress

Between budgeting, looking through listings, and scheduling showings, buying a home in NYC can feel like a second job. A buyer’s agent can help you filter listings, manage logistics, and handle obstacles so you can focus on making the important decisions — not juggling paperwork.

Start your NYC home-buying journey with confidence

StreetEasy is here to make buying in NYC easier. Our complimentary, licensed StreetEasy Concierge can answer your questions and match you with a StreetEasy Expert: a buyer’s agent or team with verified experience helping New Yorkers like you.