How can I speak directly with the listing agent when interested?

Question

Hi,

My name is Ash and I am looking at purchasing my first duplex or multi family 2-4 units in Southern CA. I am looking all over the web (Redfin, Zillow, etc) for properties. When I have found a property I am interested in, I usually reach out to the agent that the website has and ask for details.

I’ve also worked with an agent that was helping me get information about another property I was interested in as well but I didn’t enjoy how I was getting second hand information and sometimes I’d get mix messaging. And I also tend to have more follow up questions as my questions get answered.

So my question is, Is it possible to skip having my agent reaching out to the listing agent to get information about the property and am I able to speak to the listing agent myself? Or do I alway have to have the listing agent speak on behalf of me to the listing agent?

And if possible? How do I go about reaching out and contacting the listing agent through these sites like Redfin, Zillow, Etc?

Thank you all in advance and appreciate your response!

Bill B. · Answer

Most websites tell you the listing agent and their contact info. Just call or email them. If you signed an agreement with your buyer’s agent you mileage may vary.

Ps. That’s my experience with most Zillow listings saying who the listing agent is. If it doesn’t. Just copy and paste the address in to google and it will tell you.

Ron Szmik · Answer

@Ash Russom

Can understand contacting the listing agent directly to cut right to the chase but as mentioned above that agent represents the seller solely.  If you are working with your agent (buyers) agent make sure you follow-up any conversations with an email specifically stating what information you need - trust me, as an agent, it helps.

David M. · Answer

@Ash Russom

Just remember that when you work with the listing agent, that agent is working for the seller, not for you.  They don't have a fiduciary responsibility to you.  That's the main reason why they created buyer's agent.  You might be better served with another agent to work with if you want to work with a buyer's agent.  Also, if you are looking at distressed homes, the info is always confusing.  There isn't much help from the listing side so the buyer's agent may look bad for that reason.  Trust me, I know from personal experience.

Redfin operates on a different business principle.  Personally, if you are new to real estate, they may not be your best bet since they offer even less personalized/onsite service.

Lastly, don't forget that you are looking at listing portals.  Unless its a fsbo, all the listings are being sourced from the local MLS.  Zillow/Trulia, Redfin, Realtor.com, etc. all get their data from the listing services, and sometimes the portals get the data confused.  Just be forewarned.

Charles Paddock · Answer

@Ash Russom remember the listing agent has the back of the seller not the buyer so just beware. I like to have a buyers agent they negotiate for me.

Ash Russom · Answer

Thanks Bill! I just realized that Zillow does have a section where you can see the listing agent and get in contact with them but it doesn’t seem like Redfin has that option (not that I know of at least). And Redfin has been my primary source at the moment. Thanks!

How can I speak directly with the listing agent when interested?

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