NO BUYER'S AGENT = INCREASED RISK (Part 8)

BUYING FROM A SELLER'S AGENT or "DUAL AGENT" (PT 1)
(Bill Gassett)

Equally as bad as not using a buyer’s agent when purchasing a for sale by owner is going directly to a seller’s agent to buy a home. Lots of buyers think they are going to get some kind of “special deal” by going directly to the seller’s agent. Instead, buyers are dealing directly with someone who’s obligation is to the seller. Having a "dual agent" is no better either because the agent is working for two parties, not exclusively representing either.

When facing off with a real estate agent selling you a home, you are going toe to toe with a pro. It is unwise to assume you know as much as the agent. Ultimately, you will be at his or her mercy, hoping that you will be treated well and fairly. Some potential problems include:

Dealing with a salesperson

When you have your own agent, you are insulated from the persuasiveness of the other agent. Your agent knows what you want and need, and he or she knows how to avoid being taken in by salesmanship.

Paying too much

Unless you are working in the real estate industry in the area you are buying, it is unlikely that you have the ability to determine the true value of the homes you are looking at. With an agent, you have a pro who can tell you when something costs too much. Without an agent, you are extremely likely to pay more for a home than you would with an agent working for the seller. After all part of sellers agent’s job is to get their client the most money! Here in Utah, home values can change by a staggering amount from town to town for the exact same house.