Great question! And one Ihave answered before.
The problem as I see it, with an agent who works both sides of a transaction is who does the agent work for? Whose interests are they representing in the negotiation and throughout the transaction? Are both the buyer and sellers best interests served? Rarely. It can happen, but it takes a very unique situation, one in which the parties instantly agree on the terms and conditions of the sale. And even in these cases, a lot can go wrong. It's like going to court and having the same attorney as the opposing party.

I believe that 95% of the time, it is best for the buyer to be represented by their own agent- someone to be their advocate In fact, I think that early in the process of buying a home, a buyer should find a Realtor they like, trust and respect for their home buying experience.

This is just my opinion and you may be located in an attorney state where each party has their own representation (in CA we don't use attorneys on all transactions) so the circumstances may be completely different.

Micki

I agree completely with Bekah. If you have a customer that knows the home buying process there is no problem with an agent representing the buyer and seller. They can assist the buyer with preparing their written offer and present to the sellers, however, they cannot give advice as to price or concessions.
The Agency relationship does require the listing agent to represent the seller. Also, if you are a buyer going it on your own, it might be a good idea to have your attorney review your sales contract to be sure that there are no surprises. I would recommend that all first time buyers have their own agent to walk them through the process every step of the way.

Nelene Gibbs, Realtor, e-Pro
William E. Wood & Assoc
mail to: nelene@homesbynelene.com
757 672-3232

When an agent represent both the buyer and the seller, they can only assist you, not advise you. So if you feel confident about this process and do not need advice then it shouldn't bother you. However if you don't know much about the buying process and you need advice of a professional, you may want to ask the listing agent to let you be represented by another agent who you can get advice from.

The seller's agent is just that, works for the seller, the buyer's agent works for the buyer; so the question to ask yourself is do you want to share representation or would you like to have your own agent who will look out in your best interest.

Anna
917-576-5376
abrocco@laffey.com

Advantage Your Agent will know exactly what the seller is thinking and be able to convey those thoughts directly to you.

Disadvantage Your Agent will not be able to disclose everything the seller tells them

Advantage Another Agent's personality does not get involved and only one ego to deal with

Advantage You can always ask for another Agent in the same office to represent you, while the original Agent represents the seller. It is still dual Agency but you have someone you can speak to confidentially with your fears

Advantage As a member of the NAR all REALTORS sign a code of ethics that gives you protection. We work for our clients and would lose our license if we did not treat you with fiduciary responsibility.

Good luck!