Using more than one agent

[Steve Fitzgerald]

What’s the protocol on using more than one agent for searching for str investment properties in the same area? Is this viewed poorly? I don’t have contracts with any agents yet.

[Luke Carl]

@Steve Fitzgerald This has nothing to do with STR (you posted on the STR forum). But yes this is terrible practice.

The thing a lot of people don't realize is that each agent (for the most part) has access to the same properties every other agent has access too. It's not like one of these two agents has secret houses he's hiding from people. There are small exceptions to that rule especially if the agent has a past history with a client that kicks butt but I hate to tell you it doesn't sound like you fit that bill for obvious reasons.  

If either agent finds out you'll likely get ghosted. 

If either agent finds out and still has time for such shenanigans they're not a good agent. 

How do you pick which agent? Check on zillow and see how many homes they've sold in the past 12 months. (My agent for instance has sold over 100 properties in the past 12 months. Rockstar). Also ask the agents how many properties they actually OWN and do they manage these properties and if not do they like their PM? Remember, you're building SYSTEMS. 

Keep in mind you aren't exactly a cash cow to them at this point in time so you've got to provide value to your agent. How do you do that? Don't blow them up with stupid questions and DON'T TALK TO OTHER AGENTS. 

A fantastic agent is the first stone in the wall of your success. You're already breaking down your own wall.