Seller loyalty vs. dual agency
Letters to the Editor
By Inman News, Monday, March 8, 2010.Re: 'Full disclosure on dual agency' (March 4)
Dear Editor:
I have worked dual agency in the past but it is doubtful that I will do so in the future. Trying to be absolutely fair to both sides, when my stronger and longer relationship is with the seller, is very difficult and risky.
I believe referring the buyer to another person in my firm, or if they wish, to another firm, is the fairest and most ethical approach. Yes, I will make a bit less money, but I will rest better knowing that both sides are fairly represented.
George Wiggins
Rain Dance Properties Inc.
Portland, Ore.
Dear Editor:
The most common dilemma with dual agency I've experienced as a broker is, at some point in the transaction, a principal has said, "Wait a minute, don't you represent me?"
Steve Weiss
Broker
Century 21 San Luis Properties
San Luis Obispo, Calif.
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Submitted by Larry Douglas McGee on March 14, 2010 - 11:13am.
I am not convinced that most consumers know, understand or much care about agency until crunch time. Crunch time occurs when (a) it becomes obvious to the consumer that their "agent" is not really acting as their agent, and (b) when the consumer has reason to place their transaction in front of an attorney. But, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of agency and many other poorly executed aspects of the real estate service model. As REALTORS, we must improve our professional service model, from agency issues to just returning phone calls and understanding that dissatisfied consumers will not continue to pay for poor service practices.
Larry D. McGee, CRB,CRS
theberkshiregroup.com
The Berkshire Group, Realtors