Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Ask Greenwich Real Estate Broker James Martin - Buyers Real Estate Agent

Question:

If you see a home at an open house and decide to make an offer, is there a buyers real estate fee?

Answer:

I believe what you are asking is, if you walk into an open house without an agent and make an offer, does the seller still pay both "halves" of the commission? The simple answer is yes. Even if there is no buyer's agent involved, the seller must pay the full commission to the listing agent.

If you meet an agent at an open house, they are representing the seller. You can hire them, via a Buyer Representation Agreement, to represent you, too. In such a case, you and the sellers would also have to sign Dual Agency agreements, since the same firm will be representing both of you.

It is always recommended that you choose and hire your own agent to represent you. No need to go to random open houses, but, rather, have an agent working for you and helping you select which homes to view at your convenience.