Los Angeles, CA · Member since 2016 · 160 posts · 21 votes
Hello, I was once told that going to the seller's agent directly and giving them the full commission of the property you are looking to buy will give them more incentive to close the deal with you. Any thoughts about this? Advantages/disadvantages? How would you contact the seller's agent without your own agent?
Contractor · Asheville, NC · Member since 2017 · 37 posts · 12 votes
9y
Hi Mario,
I'm just a newbie so I don't know much. I can't speak to dis/advantages. But as far as trying to buy from the seller's agent I would think you could find that information from the posting site (MLS), craigslist, a sign in the front yard or even just calling the homeowner. Tell them you're interested in the property and ask for their agent's contact info. I guess it depends on how you found it for sale.
You would simply find the listing agent of the property you're referring to. The best bet would be to call the broker listed on the sign, and ask to speak to the listing agent only.
However, we get these types of calls and often still refer the buyer to other agents due to workload, so you're going to have to make your call very attractive for the agent to call you back.
Real Estate Agent · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2017 · 31 posts · 15 votes
9y
Hi Mario,
Unless you have signed an exclusive buyer representation with your agent, you can contact any seller's agent you wish. The problem with going directly to the seller's agent is you are going to be up against a seasoned negotiator that will push you into paying top dollar for the property. Remember, the seller's agent represents the seller and not you, so they are only concerned about getting the best deal for the property owner. Depending on the market you are shopping in, most agencies will split the commission, so it does not really matter to you from a financial perspective whether you purchase through your agent, or direct through the seller's agent. However, your agent would try to negotiate the lowest price for you. In other markets, such as NYC where I work in commercial real estate, many brokerages do not co-broke, so you would be better off going direct to the seller's agent, or cough up some extra cash to cover your agent's commission. I hope this helps. What market are you investing in?
Investor · Fort Wayne, IN · Member since 2016 · 48 posts · 13 votes
9y
Having your own agent, someone you trust...someone you can develop a relationship with, someone you can grow with, IMO, is your best bet. Having your own agent that can provide you with advice and other resources is a great idea long term. They will have your best interests at heart. If you haven't found that agent yet, keep looking. But it is advantageous to have someone in your corner who isn't the listing agent when buying a property.