Can I have more than one Real Estate Agent?

[Will Foster]

Hello BPers!

I'm getting close to getting my home loan approved, and then the search for a property is on! Exciting and nerve racking at the same time.

The question I have is, can I have two real estate agents helping me find my first purchase?

Being new at this, I thought you would only use one agent, but I just read today from Mindy Jensen, "Remember, you can have more than one agent bringing you deals," in her article, 7 Actions to take while searching for your next property.

So, it sounds like it's true, and it makes sense to me. Why would I not have two agents looking? 

Is there a pro and con to this approach? To me it feels like pitting two agents together in the Thunderdome.

Again, thank you in advance for your feedback.

~Will

[Bob Okenwa]

The pro for you is having two people working to earn your business. The con for the agents is that they can end up doing work for no pay. Most agents would begin the conversation by asking if you're working with another agent, and if so, they would either ask you to sign an exclusive agreement or let you and the agent work together. I know I wouldn't try to poach another agents' clients if that client already had one sending them properties but there are indeed Realtors that are unscrupulous and would push down their own mothers to drum up business.

Just put yourself in the shoes of the agent and ask how you'd like to spend time working for someone and then see that potential business go to the next guy/gal. Just be upfront with whoever you work with and let all parties know what you are trying to accomplish.