In some cases, An agent may represent both buyers and sellers; they are called "Dual" agents. If you are working with a buyer agent who then sells you one of their own listings, or a home listed with that agent's company,this dual agency would apply. When working with a top listing agency, there is a good likelihood that this may occur. In many cases, the same agent will list the property and submit your offer. In fact, they are required by law to remain confidential with both clients. There is nothing legally or ethically wrong here, however it is hard to understand how the agent can negotiate to the best of his or her ability on your behalf. Instead of becoming a negotiator, they often play the role of mediator. As long as you are informed of this relationship and are comfortable with it, you can move forward with an offer and complete the transaction without involving another agent. Make sure you understand the limitations put upon the agent in this instance and ask specific questions about the property and the process until you are satisfied and comfortable with the transaction.

It is easy to assume that no agent can represent buyers and sellers as well as an agent who declares for just one party or the other. However, there are other times when this might easily occur. If you are shopping open houses, without having first identified and hired a buyer agent to represent you, you could end up interviewing the open house agent, the seller's agent, and buying that house or another home listed by that agent's company.

Sometimes buyers and sellers opt to use "Dual" agents assuming there will be savings in commission. An Broker who represents both buyers and sellers doesn't have to split the commission with another company, however keep in mind that this one agent will be doing the work typically shared between two agents.Buyers should not expect a reduction in price because of dual agency.

If you have any other questions about "dual agency" or buyer's or seller's agency in general, pleaase call me directly at 508-259-0712.