Can I make an offer directly through a listing agent?
You CAN make your offer directly through the listing agent, but be aware that said listing agent represents the interests of the SELLER only, and not YOUR interests. As well, the amount of commission paid does not change if you use the listing agent. The fixed rate of commission in the listing agreement is still paid by the seller. If you use the listing agent, said agent gets ALL of that commission. If you use a buyer agent, the listing agent then splits that commission with the buyer agent on a pre-agreed proration. However, there is no reduction is commission amounts in either scenario.
You don’t say where you are located or where you are interested in purchasing property. Info below regards most of the US area. I agree with the other posters in essence. You can go directly through the Listing Agent to make an offer on a property. The Listing Agent represents and has a legal responsibility to the Seller – client. Unless stated otherwise, the Listing Agent usually has made an arrangement with the Seller for a commission based on the sales price of the property. If a Buyer comes with a Buyer’s Rep agent, the Listing Agent usually will share the commission with the Agent acting as the Buyer’s Rep. The actual split is what the agents agree to outside of the contract between the Seller and Buyer. The Listing Agent *might* be able to reduce their commission, but that would only be if it in their client’s best interest. If you make a very low offer and expect the Listing Agent to further reduce their commission, you might be in for a rude awakening. Additionally, if you come
Not a bad idea at all. I bought my house that way- just make sure you have at least a basic knowledge of what you’re doing. The point of getting a realtor is to help advise you on what offer to put in, what contingencies to ask for, etc. But if you’re well educated in real estate, I would not hesitate to put in an offer through the sellers agent. From my experience, even realtors working “for you” are only working for as much $$ as they can. I was excessively insulted by two realtors I worked with… one accused me of lowballing an offer and offending the sellers when it was HER idea for the offer amount- and really, I could care LESS if the sellers were offended- the house wasn’t worth what they were asking! After her, I decided to do it myself. I work as a mortgage underwriter, so I knew what to look for and how to research what the home was worth that I was bidding on. I’m extremely happy I did it that way. Good luck!
Most selling agents do not charge extra as the commission is split between the two agents. The seller has already signed a listing agreement and has agreed to pay a certain commission (usually 5%-6%). You certainly can go directly to the listing agent if you are not working with any agent. You will not save any money that way.
