Chat With Jenny

    A common "mistake" I see in this business is people feel compelled to use the listing agent to help them write a contract on one of their listings.  If you've done this in the past, I hope you had a good experience.  So many times they turn very ugly.  Why?

    Let's consider what can happen and then maybe you'll understand why I call it a "mistake".

    1.  You look at the property an agent has listed and you love it.  It truly fits what you've been looking for.  You ask the listing agent the common question; "What do you think I should offer?"  If that listing agent is honest with you they should, at that point, inform you they represent the Seller and helped establish the listing price.  They should take it one more step and tell you if you choose to proceed with negotiations on this property using them they would then be a dual agent.  Only there to help facilitate the sale.  They cannot give advice to either party.

        a.  How can a listing agent all of a sudden NOT give advice to the Seller, seeing how they signed a Listing Agreement to represent them?

        b.  How can you, at this point, decide what to offer without their guidence?

        c.  Who's interest will be served throughout the transaction?  Will either the Seller or Buyer get help and advice.  NO, the agent CANNOT give advice they can only facilitate.

    2.  What happens once the home inspection takes place and some items are found to be defective and need repairs.  Who will help tell you what is "fair" to ask the Seller to correct?  

        a.  Again, how can that listing agent tell you it's "fair" to get the Seller to repair small items, if that agent is supposed to be looking out for the best interest of the Seller.  That's why the Seller hired them....isn't it?

        b.  I've seen home inspections get absolutely ugly.  What happens when the Purchaser thinks the Seller is being unreasonable?  Who's going to convince one party or the other they are the one who's being unreasonable?  Can the dual agent do that?

If you have comments on this subject, please let me hear them.  I have my opinion and I'd love to hear yours.