Dual Agency – Good or Bad?

Dual Agency is when the real estate agent that has the home listed works directly with the buyer to purchase the home and agrees to ‘represent’ both parties at the same time.  In other words, there is only one agent involved and is actively working both sides. While this might sound ok in the excitement of getting a deal together it can lead to problems later in the process. 

The agent’s role goes from an advocate of the seller (via the listing agreement) to a ‘conduit of information’ between the parties. The agent cannot advocate or negotiate on behalf of either side. More often than not unless things go perfectly smoothly someone is going to start to doubt the agent.  Afterall, there is only one agent to blame in this scenario. 

When I have the listing I only represent the seller as they are the one paying me. In the event that I personally have a buyer who wants to purchase my listing I explain how it would work with me representing the seller. If they are uncomfortable with that I work with them to locate a Buyer’s Agent for this one particular home. 

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