I am still on the fence regarding the agent bonus. There are some ethical issues that come to mind,mainly that as buyer's agents we should be looking out for our CLIENT'S best interest, not our pocketbook. That being said, I have never felt strongly enough to turn down a bonus at closing.
Outside of my commission, I disclose every cent earned from the transaction. Want a home warranty Mr. seller?? Great, I get 60 bucks off this transaction. I do the same with the agent bonus. When narrowing the list, I tell my buyers about the agent bonus.
My fear is the bonus would cause me to give less than objective advice. And there is the rub. The bonus is designed to get the house to stand out from the herd. Want 1,500 bucks? Convince your buyer to sign on the dotted line. Things get messy in escrow? Now you are not losing 3%, but rather 3% AND 1,500 bucks.
I have found that the best way to be ethical is not to test the limits. In a busy month there is no doubt that I could be objective. But what about a slow one? Probably. When it comes to our client's best interest probably does not cut it. Thoughts??
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