Keeping A Dual Agent Honest

If you are considering buying a home find out who the agent is representing. Don't automatically assume that the real estate agent is working solely for you the buyer.

Some agents (dual agents), perform a dual role and represent both the buyer and seller. As buyer it is important to understand that the agent might have a financial responsibility to home seller. In most USA States agents are required to inform their clients as to who they represent.

If you are going to buy a property using a dual agent then discuss with the agent how he or she plans to be fair to both parties.

One way of keeping the dual agent honest is to obtain comparable prices of homes in that neighborhood from another real estate firm. When buying a home it is important to be reassured that the property is good value for money and has not been overpriced. Most real estate brokers will provide this information free of charge.

Another way of checking on the dual agents credencials is to ask to talk with some of the agent's past clients. Talk with buyers and sellers who were involved in a dual agency transaction. The important thing is to be comfortable with how each party was treated. Did the dual agent act fairly throughout the entire sales process? Did the dual agent fully explain his or her role early on in the real estate process? Would the clients recommend the dual agent?