We did this as buyers. We didn’t have a buyer’s agent lined up, and we had some options with getting one, but decided to go with the listing agent.
IMHO:
Using the listing agent gives you a better chance of getting the house if you really want it. The listing agent knows the motivation of the sellers and also knows the numbers that are likely to sit well and may tip you off if you are below (you aren’t getting tipped off if they are above I’m sure) that number. They also know how to present you in the best light to the seller. I’d think the listing agent is very likely to try to get your deal to go through with you as they will make more commission.
That said, the only downsides I could see with using a listing agent (in the case that you really want the house) is that:
1) You may not get the best deal
2) You may not be fully represented for anything such as repairs prior to the sale.
As long as you’re fine with that, I didn’t see any other downsides from the buyer side.
