a question about selling our home...

madtownbride

We are ready to put our house back on the market so we've interviewed two agents.  We really like them both and can't decide between the two.  We do like one a little better in terms of being a buyers agent for us when we look for a new home.  But in terms of acting as a sellers agent for our current house - we can't decide between the two.

Would it be weird to use one agent to sell our current house and one agent to help us look for a new house?  Or is this totally normal?

Carrot303

You can definitely do whatever you want.  I worked as a Realtor for years and years and never had this happen.  If I sold your house, I would be very confused why you wouldn't want me as your Buyer's Agent - unless you're moving to a totally different suburb that maybe that other Realtor really specializes in.

You can at least ask if the selling agent will knock off some commission if you sign something agreeing to purchase through her, as well.  So, instead of her charging you 6%, she may agree to a 5% commission if you agree to purchase with her.  She is not obligated to agree, especially if she spends a lot on advertising but it's worth a shot and may make the decision easier for you.

Bottom line: you can work with whomever you choose.   

emoflamingo

Carrot303:

You can definitely do whatever you want.  I worked as a Realtor for years and years and never had this happen.  If I sold your house, I would be very confused why you wouldn't want me as your Buyer's Agent - unless you're moving to a totally different suburb that maybe that other Realtor really specializes in.

You can at least ask if the selling agent will knock off some commission if you sign something agreeing to purchase through her, as well.  So, instead of her charging you 6%, she may agree to a 5% commission if you agree to purchase with her.  She is not obligated to agree, especially if she spends a lot on advertising but it's worth a shot and may make the decision easier for you.

Bottom line: you can work with whomever you choose.   

We're moving from one area to a completely other area and I'm considering using 2 agents just for this reason. I want someone who knows the area we want to move to really well, but the area I live in is completely different.

Pumpkin30

madtownbride:

We are ready to put our house back on the market so we've interviewed two agents.  We really like them both and can't decide between the two.  We do like one a little better in terms of being a buyers agent for us when we look for a new home.  But in terms of acting as a sellers agent for our current house - we can't decide between the two.

Would it be weird to use one agent to sell our current house and one agent to help us look for a new house?  Or is this totally normal?

So in regard to being a seller's agent, they're evenly matched? In that case, I'd go with the one you think would be a better buyer's agent for you.

I think it would be unusual to have separate REA if you're moving to a similar area. It would also be easier on you to have the same person that way he/she can handle the timeline better. If you have two agents, you'll have to be the intermediary on closing dates, etc.

FoxinFiji

Hi!!  

I would really try to stick with one agent.  I've never heard of anyone in our area using two.  I guess I would be most concerned about the selling side of the deal as that is the hardest part right now.  Anyone can buy and you as the buyer has more control over the buying process in this market.  Just my $.2.  

BTW I've been meaning to e-mail you...been so busy studying for my test.  Your announcements were super cute!

GingerSB

Our realtor gave us a break on commission when we used him for both buying and selling. I would stick with the same agent unless there is a compelling reason not to. 

hippie4yahweh

Most realtors try to get repeat business, so I think that whichever one you're more comfortable with as your BA should also be your SA. I have a great relationship with my realtor after doing business with her twice so far and I wouldn't consider "cheating" on her (lol that's totally how it would feel to me!) unless I was moving hours away or if she retired or something!