I'll Only Work With The Listings Agent

What is dual agency?  Why are all these agents freaking out?  Here is my answer:  don't understand the problem! Well actually I DO! If both the seller and buyer understand what dual agency is there is nothing wrong with it. When we list a home we thoroughly explain to them what would happen if we found a buyer. It is impossible to exclusively represent two parties on opposite ends of a deal. A buyer and a seller. Our role changes from being an advocate for the seller (or buyer) to a mediator. The buyer may ask "do you think they will accept an offer for $$$ less than the asking price?" Answer: As we discussed you know that I can't tell you what they will accept and actually don't even know for sure. So let's write an offer and I will present it to them." Seller asks: Do you think they will come up? Same answer. "As we discussed if I am acting as a dual agent I can't tell you. You can accept it or counter offer and I will bring it back to the buyer" etc.

Of course actually these questions are rarely asked because we have already thoroughly discussed this with them when we first gave them the agency brochure required by the state of Idaho at the first substantial meeting. There is no reason to stop dual agency. There is reason for agents to be ethical and honest and for brokers to hold them to it and for the Real Estate Commissions to aggressively prosecute violators.

In short sales where price isn't usually the issue it is BETTER to have a dual agent because the game is collaboration, not competition. Everything needs to be done with full knowledge and understanding of the involved parties. A dual agent knows what is going on with the short sale and if he or she is a competent short sale agent the deal is more likely to close in our experience. Honesty and ethics and EDUCATION. It is our duty to inform and educate our clients. And documenty EVERYTHING.