Why You Should Hire Your Own Buyer’s Agent
(and Not Just Work with the Listing Agent)
By: Sally Heldman, Broker Owner
When most buyers start the house hunting process, they usually start online, on a site like Zillow or Realtor.com. But when they want to know more about a home, they are tempted to just reach out to the listing agent. After all, they already know the house inside and out.
In addition, there's a myth that if a buyer goes directly to the listing agent, they will save money on the purchase price because there is not buyer's agent commission. NOT TRUE at all. It's quite possible the listing agent has negotiated a "full commission" regardless of who brings the buyer.
And here's the most important thing to remember. That agent represents the seller—not you. If you want someone fully in your corner, it’s essential to work with your own buyer’s agent and here's why:
1. The Listing Agent Works for the Seller
The listing agent’s job is to get the seller the best price and terms possible. That means their loyalty, advice, and negotiation strategies are focused on the seller’s interests—not yours. A buyer’s agent, on the other hand, is legally obligated to put your best interests first.
Yes, it's possible for the listing agent to act as a Transaction Broker (TB), but that can be a very fine line to walk and can lead to conflicts of interests...and lawsuits..on both sides. ;-)
Furthermore, many listing agents will continue to represent the seller, and treat you, the buyer as "a customer". Their fiduciary duty is to the seller, NOT you.
2. Negotiation Power
Buying a home involves more than just settling on a price. Inspection issues, appraisal gaps, closing timelines, and repair requests all come into play. A buyer’s agent knows how to advocate for you in these negotiations so you don’t leave money—or peace of mind—on the table.
3. Market Knowledge
Buyer’s agents spend their days analyzing market trends, previewing homes, and reviewing sold comps. They can tell you if a home is priced fairly, or not, what similar homes are selling for, and if it makes sense to offer full price or if there might an opportunity to come in under list price. That knowledge can save you thousands.
4. Guidance Through the Process
From writing the offer to navigating inspections, financing, and closing, there are countless moving parts in a home purchase. A buyer’s agent keeps you on track, explains the paperwork, and coordinates with lenders, inspectors, appraisers and title companies. Without one, you’re left to figure it out with an agent who isn’t primarily focused on you.
5. It Usually Costs You Nothing!
Even after the NAR anti-trust settlement, it is still business as usual. In most cases, the seller still pays the real estate commission, which covers both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. The only difference now is that it's part of the negotiations and is in the Contract to Buy.
That means you get expert representation, negotiation, and guidance—at no direct cost to you.
Bottom Line
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. You deserve someone who is 100% on your side, protecting your interests from start to finish. A buyer’s agent gives you that peace of mind—and helps you land the right home on the right terms. I'm here to help!
Sally Heldman
Broker Owner
Metro Brokers / Heldman Real Estate
303.475.4508 CELL
sally@sallyheldman.com