Using the Seller’s Agent as Your Buyer’s Agent

[wild.t.a.]

Is it unwise to use the listing realtor as your purchase realtor? Technically, I would be using an associate of the listing agent. Is that still unwise?

[SD Realtor]

There have been many posts on this topic. I am sure someone will post links.

Many people who have had some real estate experience swear by this method. The primary reason is because they feel in a competitive situation with many other offers, this puts you in a better position because the listing agent will double end the deal and get both commissions. This could have some merit, it just depends on the integrity of the listing agent.

Other thoughts are that you as the buyer should go to the listing agent and tell them that you know they are going to double end the deal and that allows you to submit a lower offer. Alternately they can accept a lower commission (not the full double ended amount) along with your lower offer so the seller will accept the lower offer.

Again there is a possibility of this as well.

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So if you look at the two above possibilites as pros then the cons would be with regards to your representation. Will that agent be as hard nosed as a buyers agent that has worked with you only? Will they advise you accordingly with regards to inspections, concerns etc? If you ask yourself honest questions, the overwhelming probability of a lower degree of representation is high.

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So I would take it on a case by case basis. If the home you are looking at has several offers and it is a highly competitive situation, then yeah you could probably justify it, (make sure you have a third party who can be an advocate for you) but if that is not the situation I am not sure if I would do it. I would add that it also depends on your knowledge, and experience on real estate in general as well as the home/area you are buying in.

[sdrealtor]

Good advice

[recordsclerk]

I would have to second that. I have seen it work first hand, but the representation was poor and I had to assist my relative on getting rid of some junk fees.

[urbanrealtor]

I have been in the game for the last decade.
My family have been in the game for the last century.
I am a fourth-generation Realtor.

The above-referenced info is accurate.

If I were buying outside of CA, I would never go without a buyer’s agent.

I might lose a few bidding war situations but I would know I had someone looking out for me.

Not everybody is the same, but having an informed advocate is really important to me.

[wild.t.a.]

Thank you for the tips!

[Author]

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