We Only Want to Work with the Listing Agent

The following is a portion of an article from a listing agent:

Yesterday, we had a call from a couple who wanted to see one of our listings. We asked them the standard question and they assured us they were not working with a Realtor. We met them and asked them if they would like us to send them additional properties that meet their criteria once it was clear that they were not interested in our listing. After spending an hour with them, they mentioned that they only work with listings agents because they can save money on the purchase if they buy directly from the listing agent because the seller saves the 2.8% coop. UGH!

I explained to them that none of our listings were a “Variable Commission” and that many agents were getting away from that and if they bought one of our listings, the seller would not save one dime on commissions. The replied with “Well we have bought lots of homes this way”.

They asked me to email them properties in other areas. I was reluctant to spend 2 minutes looking anything up for them because I am sure they will play their Reindeer Games and call the listing agents directly.

It is so silly how some of the public thinks that they can circumvent the system and represent themselves in a transaction where the only Realtor is the one representing the seller. Why would they fly solo in the largest purchase of their life? And why would they waste their time driving through neighborhoods pulling flyers out of boxes instead of letting a professional Realtor assist them with their home search?

Source: Active Rain

My feeling is to be loyal; both, as it relates to a Realtor to client relationship and client to their Realtor.

The problem with working with whichever agent holds the listing is you will only tour their listings. A buyer's agent will show you all listings and keep you informed as well as protect any confidential information that is to be kept confidential; ie: maximum amount the buyer is willing to spend/of your pre-approval.

The solution for the buyer is to hire a Realtor that they feel they can trust, one that will work hard for them and one to show them all listings regardless of the listing brokerage.

The fact is: Although commissions are negotiable, the seller has executed a contract with the listing broker to pay a pre-determined amount or percentage. If a buyer's agent exists, they will receive a portion of that amount after closing. Generally, there is NO ADDITIONAL COST to the seller or buyer that has their own Realtor.

Scott