When most buyers start the house hunting process, they usually start online, on a site like Zillow or Realtor.com. But when they want to know more about a home, they are tempted to just reach out to the listing agent. After all, they already know the house inside and out.
In addition, there's a myth that if a buyer goes directly to the listing agent, they will save money on the purchase price because there is not buyer's agent commission. NOT TRUE at all. It's quite possible the listing agent has negotiated a "full commission" regardless of who brings the buyer.
And here's the most important thing to remember. That agent represents the seller—not you. If you want someone fully in your corner, it’s essential to work with your own buyer’s agent and here's why:
1. The Listing Agent Works for the Seller
The listing agent’s job is to get the seller the best price and terms possible. That means their loyalty, advice, and negotiation strategies are focused on the seller’s interests—not yours. A buyer’s agent, on the other hand, is legally obligated to put your best interests first.
Yes, it's possible for the listing agent to act as a Transaction Broker (TB), but that can be a very fine line to walk and can lead to conflicts of interests...and lawsuits..on both sides. ;-)
Furthermore, many listing agents will continue to represent the seller, and treat you, the buyer as "a customer". Their fiduciary duty is to the seller, NOT you.
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