Why Working With the Listing Agent Can Actually Work Against You

I need to address something I see regularly: buyers who think they'll get a better deal by working directly with the listing agent.

The Logic That Seems Sound — But Isn't

The logic seems reasonable — the listing agent gets both sides of the commission, so maybe they'll negotiate a better price or give you inside information. In reality, this strategy usually backfires.

The listing agent represents the seller. Their legal and ethical obligation is to get the seller the best possible outcome. When you work with them as a buyer, you're operating without anyone actually representing your interests.

What You Share Will Be Used Against You

Any information you share with the listing agent — your budget, your motivation, your timeline, your concerns — goes directly to the seller and will be used against you in negotiations. That's not being unfair; that's them doing their job for their client.

Commission Structures Don't Work the Way You Think

The total commission is typically set when the home is listed. Whether one agent gets it all or two agents split it doesn't usually change what the seller nets. So you're not creating leverage by going direct — you're just removing your own protection.

What You're Really Giving Up

What you're giving up is representation. You're giving up someone whose job is to protect your interests, negotiate on your behalf, identify issues you need to know about, and guide you through the process.

As a buyer's agent, I get paid by the seller at closing via the commission split — but my obligation is entirely to you. I work to get you the best price, the best terms, and the smoothest transaction possible.

Don't handicap yourself by operating without representation just to save the seller some commission. It's a false economy that can cost you thousands in the end.