The Agent is NOT working for you.

Hunting for your next deal or residence?  If you are getting a deal from the MLS (and yes, there are still some on there), you need to be aware of something important if you are using the listing agent while you are the Buyer:  The listing agent's hands are tied during the purchase negotiations.  They are NOT negotiating for you.

The thing about listing agents is that their hands are legally tied when they represent both the seller AND the buyer. It's easy to see that you can't on negotiate on behalf of your client - against your other client. In real estate they call this "limited agency."  Agents "representing" both sides should have you sign something recognizing that their ability to negotiate on your behalf is curtailed. 

Some listing agents bring in another agent to help any buyers so they don't have this conflict of interest.   Better yet, bring in your own buyer's agent.