Hiring One Agent to Help You List and Another to Help You Buy

I agree with you and definitely would recommend that they use the same agent, who has a vested interest in both deals going through and being able to answer all questions that the client might have through the process.

I had clients who used me to buy and another to sell once. It was a little odd, but it worked out. I think it is easier for all involved for one agent to represent both parts of the transaction as nothing can get lost in communication.

There are less mistakes and only one person to blame when you use one agent.

It does seem a bit silly to hire two agents, and it could get confusing too.

It's extremely rare for a client of mine to be selling and buying in my market.  I agree that if it's in the same market it's great to have an agent that can do both. However when I have a client in the situation where they are selling or buying in another city out of my market and the other here with me I make sure to communicate often and well with the other agent to keep things on track.

It's the American way Chris Ann Cleland. The pie just keeps getting bigger! 

I'm with you and your recommendation to go with one agent.....you!

It certainly makes sense to only use one agent.  Not sure why anyone would want to muddy the waters by bringing yet another agent into the mix, either, unless they are getting a big rebate on the buy side.  

Good morning Chris Ann. I think you managed this question beautifully and are right about it all.

Hi Chris Ann -- it's an unusual question but you answered it in a very professional and easy-to-understand manner.   I'm not surprised.  

As an EBA, I have run in to this set up more often than most.  Some of my past clients want me to list their property when they want to move-up, or sellers who need to sell in order to buy (through me) will often ask about this.  I refer to great listing agents. 

I take it one step further in my practice. They work with me as the listing agent but they also work with one of my team members as the buyer's agent. This way they get two agents on the same team but we perform different functions. We also cover for each other if need be. I am also not about to drag them all over town to look at homes as I focus only on listings, so they get the best of both worlds. I imagine you moving to this system in your career, Chris Ann. :)

Oh boy, this happened to us this week. We're listing a couple's home, she called to tell me they were excited as they'd written an offer on anther house. What?  Her reasoning, we know you get better deals if you work with listing agents. I said really? Who do you think I'll be looking out for when we get an offer on "your home?" 

It happens a lot for some reason.  Sellers think they need a different agent for their purchase. The second agent rarely worries about what is happening on the sell side and may overlook contingencies related to making sure the first deal goes through before the second one can close

Chris Ann

Nice explanation of one of the problems that occur when two agents are involved, lack of effective communication. cheers cvc

That makes perfect sense. Less chance for something to go off the track.

Hi,

There is definitely benefit in having one point of contact.

Cheers!

Milan