Be Careful of the "Dual" Agent
Some agents will
represent both buyers and sellers; they are
called "Dual" agents. In many cases, the
same agent will list the property and submit
your offer. In fact, they are required by
law to remain confidential with both
clients. There is nothing legally or
ethically wrong here, however it is hard to
understand how the agent can negotiate to
the best of his or her ability on your
behalf. Instead of becoming a negotiator,
they often play the role of mediator.
It is easy to assume that no agent can
represent buyers and sellers as well as an
agent who declares for just one party or the
other.
Buyers and sellers opt to use "Dual" agents
to get a savings in commission. An agent who
represents both buyers and sellers doesn't
have to split the commission with other
agents and may be willing to throw in some
of that commission, which, in effect, will
get you a reduced price.
