When it comes to real estate transactions, things will become easier if you have a real estate agent on your side. But you need to know who your agent is and who is not. An agent who is truly working for you is someone you have a written or verbal agreement with.

There will be times when you find yourself talking to an agent who is part of the deal. However, he is not formally representing you. These agents are professional, friendly, and helpful. But in the event that they are the agent of the home seller, expect them to be obligated to the seller. This includes the legal obligations they have with their clients, which are not applicable to your conversations and interactions whatsoever.

Holding them accountable

In reality, however, these legal obligations are not strictly met by the agents. This is because agents have their own interests in keeping their good relations with other agents. When they become too friendly, they sometimes disclose valuable information, which they should be kept secret in the first place.

There are even cases wherein collusion takes place whenever oversharing of information occurs. The two agents from opposite sides work together and arrange a deal wherein both of them will benefit. This, of course, goes beyond the interests of their respective clients.

The moment you start to feel or notice that something is off in regard to the service and information your agent gives you, you may report to your agent’s higher-ups regarding your concern. The same thing goes if you notice that your agent is getting too close and cozy with the agent of the other party.

In such cases, the wisest move to make is to find a different agent. Let your current agent know about your decision in writing. Clearly, state in your letter that you have decided to sever your professional ties with your agent. Tell him that you do not want him to represent you any longer.

Be mindful, however, that you may still have liabilities with your current agent. Part of these liabilities may include paying them their commission. This is of course if you have signed an agreement with your agent that he will be formally representing you.

And because all of these possible scenarios, it is imperative that you know where you really stand in relation to your agent. These circumstances also highlight the value and importance of dealing with a licensed agent. At the end of the day, you will also enjoy the upper hand if the other party does not have an agent working for them. If you are selling your property or looking for fort lauderdale homes for sale make sure to work with Tim Elmes and his team.