Why, at SREG, we have different agents for sellers and buyers
It’s not uncommon for a real estate agent to represent both a seller and a buyer in a home transaction. In fact, we’ve even heard of agents that will “discount” their services if they represent the buyer and seller.
“In Oklahoma, it is perfectly legal for one agent to represent the buyer and the seller,” said Becky Seda, lead agent at Seda Real Estate Group. “People do it all the time.”
However, at Seda Real Estate Group, we choose NOT to represent both sides of a contract.
Here’s why.
Relationship
First, our listing agents often work with clients for months before their house is officially listed. They know their motivations for selling and their goals.
“I believe they have hired me to get them as much money as possible on their property,” Seda said.
Whereas, a buyer is typically expecting their agent to help them save as much money as possible.
“For me, I feel like there’s a conflict of interest between those two,” Seda said. “I make no judgments about how others do business, but for me I choose to keep them separate.”
That’s why at Seda Real Estate Group we have a team of agents. With listing agents and buyers’ agents working to ensure their clients get the best deal. The team approach ensures that whether an agent is working with a buyer or a seller they are fully focused on their client.
Trust and Loyalty
Which brings us to the next reason. By working with just one side, clients can trust their agent’s advice.
“I like to make sure my client never wonders what my motivation is,” Seda said. “My motivation is always to be their advocate and fiduciary through the process.”
Another reason, representing both sides could bring about questions of loyalty.
“Our loyalties lie with our clients — whether buying or selling,” Seda said. “I don’t want there to ever be a question in their mind as to who I am focused on working for. I am always focused on my client.”
Sellers and buyers should always expect their agents to respect and honor their confidentiality. By not having one agent representing both sides, we can continuously work to help our clients reach the goals they have shared with their agent.
“We’re not going to disclose a seller’s motivation to sell or a buyer’s motivation to buy, and I would never want to be accused of that,” Seda said. “But once an agent has that knowledge, we wouldn’t want that to come out in our negotiation style one way or another.”
Our Team Approach
When an unrepresented buyer calls from one of our yard signs or they find an online listing, the buyers’ agents in our office can work directly with them, ensuring they have an agent dedicated to helping them.
Again, in Oklahoma, it is completely legal for an agent to represent both sides of a contract.
If you would like to learn more about the Seda Real Estate team or have questions about buying or selling a home, reach out. Our team is here for you. Give us a call at 405-400-9973.