Listing Agent
Traditionally, buyers would stop at a Open House for sale or see a sign and call the broker/agent on the sign. But the potential problem with that method is that the listing broker/agent were hired by and in most cases, by law in Georgia, the listing agent/broker represents the seller.

Be careful about what you say to a listing agent. A listing agent's role is to find a buyer, and to get as high a price and as good terms as possible for the seller. The listing agent is required to inform the seller of any facts that may influence the seller's decision about whether to accept an offer or not.

For example, if you mention to the listing agent how much mortgage you are qualified for, don't be surprised if the seller knows too.

Always keep in mind that you want the lowest price and the best terms. If an agent is not directly working for you, they could very well be working against you.

Dual Agents
Some agents will represent both buyers and sellers; they are called "Dual" agents. 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.

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.

Buyers and sellers opt to use "Dual" agents to get a savings in commission. An agent who represents both buyers and sellers doesn't have to split the commission with other agents and may be willing to throw in some of that commission, which, in effect, will get you a reduced price.

Buyer's Agency
It's important that you choose an experienced agent who is there for you. Your agent should be actively finding you potential homes, keeping you informed of the entire process, negotiating furiously on your behalf, and answering all of your questions with competence and speed.

First, contact us first and let us represent you and your interest as your buyers agent. This is beneficial during the negotiation process. As your buyer's agent, he or she is required not to tell the seller of your top choice. We focused on getting you the lowest asking price.

As your Buyers Agent, we will work with you to find the right home for you. It does't matter to a buyers agent which home you buy. Natually the listing agent will want to sell you their listing or their company's listing.

Also, using us as your buyer's agent, you will see more properties. Not only are we plugged into the Multiple Listing Services, but also they are actively finding homes that are listed as FSBO, or homes that sellers are thinking about listing.

With us as Your Buyers Agent, when you get to the closing table their will be four people their, not just three. The lawyer representing the mortgage company, the listing agent representing the seller, you, and the buyers agent represnting you.

Thanks,

Jerrie Lusk, Assoc Broker, CRS
Associate Broker
Re/Max Around Atlanta
Phone: 770-529-6933 / 404-520-4693

MyRealtyAgent.com

Information provided by My Realty Agent as a service to home owners, buyers and sellers and is believed to be accurate but is not warranted.