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Lines of Communication in Real Estate
Dear Phyllis,
I am wondering about lines of communication in real estate. Over the years, I have purchased several homes with the same real estate agent. Recently, my agent went out of town for several weeks, and I chose not to bother him while he was on vacation. I had a very simple question, so I contacted the seller’s agent directly. The seller’s agent told me she could not speak with me because I already had representation.
I have never encountered this before. Can I speak directly with the seller’s agent without involving my own agent? Is this a new rule? I understand that real estate practices change over time, but this situation feels unusual. I would like to understand the current protocol for communication in real estate transactions. RB
Dear RB,
You are correct that real estate practices have evolved over the years. As a result, home buyers can now access so much information about a property before they select a Realtor that some people believe agents are interchangeable or even unnecessary. In fact, a growing number of consumers mistakenly assume that Realtors simply open doors.
However, our Code of Ethics requires us to funnel all communications through your agent rather than speaking directly with another agent’s client. Therefore, the agent representing you is compensated to provide a full range of services, including answering your questions and guiding you through the process.
In addition, each time a seller’s agent communicates directly with a buyer who already has representation, that agent may assume additional liability. For this reason, the seller’s agent may simply remind you that, since you already have your own Realtor, you should direct your questions through your agent.
You can speak with whomever you wish, but why would you want to? When a buyer talks directly with the seller or their agent, that buyer is representing himself (and sometimes poorly). Diplomacy, knowledge, negotiating skills, and experience are why Realtors earn their commission.
Congratulations on your new home.
Call Phyllis @ 818 790-7325 or email her at Phyllis@Harbandco.com with your real estate questions.
Whenever I have been to an open house the first thing I am asked is if I am represented by a realtor. Seems like the same principle here.