This is a flashback to my new construction days. When I was Active, I listed and sold 40 subdivisions.
What are listing agents of new construction thinking when they write a memo in their MLS listing that says "agent must accompany buyer at the first showing." That comment is a signal for disaster.
First and foremost, no one owns a buyer, unless that buyer wants to sign a buyer's agent agreement. If the buyer wants to search on his own prior to hiring a buyer's agent, that's the buyers' right to do so. This happens often in our area, and listing agents need to realize that without the buyers' agent, your listing has little to no chance of selling to any buyer.
Our listings are open to all buyers to view and become comfortable with prior to hiring a buyers' agent. We encourage showings, and when we ask if there is an agent in the equation, it is only to call that agent and inform them of the showing, so the agent is able to follow up.
Every buyer deserves proper representation. Buyers deserve to have a buyer's agent by their side from start to finish. Agents should "pick a side and stay there." If you're a listing agent, represent the seller and only the seller. If you're a buyer's agent, you know who your client is.
Greed has no place in the real estate business. Too often, the listing agent of new construction challenges the buyers' agent who was not there for the initial showing. Listing agents should expect to lose future transactions with that type of attitude and justifiably so!!!