You’re driving through your dream neighborhood when you spot the perfect home for sale. The sign has a phone number—so why not call? The agent can give you all the details, set up a showing, and maybe even help you make an offer.
Heck, you might even think you can get a discount by working with them directly. Saving on commission, right?
WRONG.
This simple call could be one of the most expensive mistakes you make as a homebuyer. Here’s why.
1. The Agent on the Sign Works for the Seller—Not You!
Real estate agents have a legal duty to represent their client’s best interests. The agent on the sign? Their client is the seller—not you.
Their job is to:
- Get the highest price possible for the seller
- Get the best terms for the seller
- Protect the seller’s bottom line
Working with the seller's agent directly, the odds are stacked against you from the start.
2. You Might Pay MORE—Not Less
Many buyers believe that if they skip using their own agent, they’ll get a better deal. After all there will be one agent to pay, not two, right?
Here’s the truth:
The seller has already agreed to a set commission, whether there’s one agent or two.
If the seller's agent represents both you and the seller (dual agency), their main goal is to get the seller the highest price. After all, that is who hired them first and for that main reason. So, they won't focus on negotiating a discount for you.
Without your own agent, you lose crucial negotiation power.
It could cost you tens of thousands by
- potentially paying more for the home,
- overlooking repairs, or
- waiving contingencies.
So instead of saving money, you could end up overpaying.
3. You’re Negotiating Against a Pro—Alone
Think about it: The listing agent negotiates real estate deals every single day. You? Maybe once or twice in your lifetime.
Who do you think has the upper hand?
A buyer’s agent:
- âś… Knows if a home is overpriced
- âś… Can discover hidden issues
- âś… Fights to get you the best deal—not the seller
If you don’t have an expert on your side, you’re going into the negotiation unprepared. The listing agent will use this to their advantage.
4. The Listing Agent Won’t Point Out Red Flags
With an agent by your side, she will protect your interests.
She can spot potential problems, like:
- Structural issues
- Overpriced listings
- Costly hidden damages
The listing agent? Their priority is to get the best deal for the seller, and while they are legally required to disclose adverse material facts, they have no obligation to point out issues that might weaken the seller’s negotiating position.
Wouldn’t you prefer someone who is focused on your best interests?
5. The Seller Likely Already Factored in the Commission—So Get an Agent Working for YOU!
Many buyers assume they’ll have to pay extra to have their own agent. That’s not 100% true.
Sellers usually include the buyer's agent's commission in their selling costs. If you don’t have your own agent, the listing agent might get all the commission that was originally negotiated between the seller and their realtor. Meaning you don’t actually “save” anything by going directly to them.
Plus, commissions are negotiable and can always be part of the contract. You can ask the seller to cover your agent’s fee, just like you might negotiate for closing costs or repairs.
So why wouldn’t you want an expert working exclusively for you?
A buyer’s agent can:
- Find homes that fit your needs
- Negotiate a better deal
- Protect you from risky contract terms
Having your own representation means someone is watching out for you, not just the seller.
What Should You Do Instead?
- DON’T call the agent on the sign.
- HIRE your own buyer’s agent.
- LET your agent handle all communications.
Working with the listing agent might seem convenient, but it could cost you thousands. Instead, get a dedicated buyer’s agent who will fight for you—and ensure you get the best deal possible.
Ready to Buy Smart? Let’s Talk! Don’t make the mistake of working with the seller’s agent. Get the guidance you deserve—contact a buyer’s agent today!
Want to learn more? Check out these helpful articles:
- What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Working with the Seller’s Agent? – Realtor.com
- Why You Need a Buyer’s Agent When Purchasing a Home – Rocket Mortgage
- 10 Benefits of Working with a Realtor When Buying a Home – Key Inspection Services
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