Two years ago, buyers would have given their "eye teeth" to have this market.

Not only can you buy low and eventually sell high, you can select your location, you can pick your price, you can get repairs done by the seller.  You can afford beachside property if you wish or a cool condo near the attractions.

How can a real estate agent help a buyer in this market?

First, you need to know the TRUE  VALUE of the property you're looking at.  Buyers that have an agent on their side are usually going to do much better at getting at the real price.  But price is only one of my negotiating points.  There's 11 more!

What about closing costs?  What about repair costs?  What about pre-paid upgrades and buyer's bonuses?  There's still 8 more negotiating points!

I use a 12 point negotiating strategy, not just the sale price, closing costs, repair costs or buyer's bonuses.  

Real estate is a mature business  steeped in protocol and law.  It is controlled by Federal, State and local regulations.  On top that, there are local contracts with features that reflect the unique ambience of the location.  Florida, for example, has a history in real estate that has spawned their own operating agreements that don't  correspond to other states.

Knowing how to use those contracts and agreements is essential to getting the best financial yield out of a real estate transaction.