Be Wary About the Listing Agent
Traditionally,
buyers would stop at a house for sale and be
shown the property by an agent sitting
there. But the problem with that method is
that the agent sitting there is usually the
listing agent. And in most cases, he or she
represents the seller.
Be careful about what you say to a listing
agent. A listing agent's role is to find a
buyer, and to get as high a price and as
good terms as possible for the seller. He or
she is required to inform the seller of any
facts that may influence the seller's
decision about whether to accept an offer or
not.
For example, if you mention to the listing
agent how much mortgage you are qualified
for, don't be surprised if the seller knows
too.
Always keep in mind that you want the lowest
price and the best terms. If an agent is not
directly working for you, they could very
well be working against you.
