Am i expected to only use one real estate agent?

Question

I am new to real estate and have started contacting agents. What are the rules on using agents? Am I expected to only use one agent? Is it against any rules to use multiple agents? Maybe its not illegal, but is it immoral to use multiple agents?

Max Gradowitz · Answer

It's totally ok to switch anytime granted you don't sign some sort of exclusive agreement (and you never have to!).  But keep in mind that agents are salespeople, so they will hound you if you start using them and then fly off the radar.  Be upfront and honest about it to avoid that.  You won't hurt their feelings.

Also, finding a random agent on Zillow, especially if you need an investor-friendly agent, is probably the worst way of finding an agent.  Agents pay to show up on Zillow listings, and it's (in my experience) usually brand new inexperienced agents that don't have a stream of clients so they pay Zillow for leads.... Not what you want for investment purchases in my opinion.

Andrew Syrios · Answer

We go with whatever agent brings us the deal but we primarily use one when we're out "shopping" (i.e. just going around and looking at listings). There's no requirement unless you sign an exclusive agreement (which I would avoid). Just be up front with whoever you're working with and don't go around anyone.

Chris Mason · Answer

It's not crazy to have an agent per market. If an agent is giving you a bunch of helpful information about a particular market, it's the decent thing to do to work with that same agent should you buy in that given market. Taking all that great info, then going to a discount brokerage, isn't exactly behavior that encourages agents to be helpful, big picture.

Brad Carrier · Answer

It's hard to find a good agent in my experience. If you don't already have a track record in a market they're very hit or miss. If someone want's to put in effort and help you then help them and get them some commission. If they blow you off or make it work to get basic info and appointments just move on.

Brandon L. · Answer

@Trevor Muska would you want a seller to work with multiple buyers, or would you prefer the seller commit to working with you?

I wrote a blog post that may help you narrow down your choices for the right agent for you. Click on the link give it a read and share your thoughts with me in the comments :)

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52724-im-...

Paul Caputo · Answer

The only way you're "locked in" with an agent is if you sign an agency agreement with them. If you want to keep working with agents it's best to do good by them as far as deals go. If an agent was the procuring cause of your deal you should work with them on that deal.

Some agents won't talk to you more than a couple times without a signed agreement. Just like anyone else, they don't want to work for free and they only get paid at closing.

Most agents only work with primary residence home buyers. The investing side is a different animal and requires agents who "get it". You'll be lucky if 1 in 10 gets it on the investing side.

Just be honest and lay out what you want. You should be able to figure out if they can help you in about 5 minutes. Focus on the ones that get it and you'll be well represented.

Trevor Muska · Answer

This is exactly why i asked the question. I wanted to make sure there wasnt some rule that locked me into the agent that sent me a house in a list of 30 other houses.

Trevor Muska · Answer

Yes i would never take the information that was given to me and circumnavigate the agent but Im worried that the fist agent form zillow or whatever may not be the "best" agent. I dont want to get too far if im going to get stuck.

Am i expected to only use one real estate agent?

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