Can I make an offer directly through a listing agent?
First, in response to some of the posts, if dual agency is allowed in your state, and the procedures followed correctly, the listing agent also becomes a buyers agent. Please check with the listing agent, or your state license regulators if dual agency is allowed in your state. In Illinois Dual Agency is allowed, but it does limit the agents ability of what can be done for either side. Details are lenghtly, so i will stop right there. As to your question, Yes sometimes it is beneficial to go straight to the listing agent, make sure the listing agent discloses what their rights & options are to/for you first. Then decide from there. In short sales for example, the mortgage holder is looking at their bottom line, many times commission is renegotiated, so if the mortgage holder cuts the commission for only 1 agent, your bottom price may be affected too. Again, check to see what the representation rights are for you, and decide from there. Representation is KEY. Good Luck & Happy House Buy
