Choosing the Right Buyer’s Agent in Charlottesville
Last week's article in the Daily Progress was good (edit: now-broken link), but as I told the journalist at the time - there is so much more I wanted to go into that article, and newspapers are so limited by what they can offer in print.…
The Single-agent Dual Agency debate is revitalized at VARBuzz
Thanks to the monthly email newsletter from VAR. (Not everybody reads blogs?!) I know some members of the Virginia Real Estate Board have opinions; why don't they share them now? A sampling: As a listing agent, how can I promise to do the best job…
Seeking a defense of Single-Agent Dual Agency
Will anybody defend the practice of the same Realtor representing both a buyer and seller on the same transaction? Find out at VARBuzz.
Clarifying my stance against Dual Agency
I have long argued against Dual Agency, and need to slightly redefine/clarify my opposition - My beef is with Single Agent Dual Agency where the same agent represents both sides of a transaction. In principle and practice, Dual Agency, also known as Designated Agency, when…
Another reason blog “leads” are better
The differences between leads generated from blogs and "leads" purchased through one of the various blood-sucking non-value-adding referral companies are many. Some of the most crucial differences are that blog clients: 1) Are typically further along in the process of hiring an agent (whether buyer's…
What if I see something the inspector doesn’t see?
A simple argument against dual agency. In speaking to a respected listing agent last week while negotiating an offer, she assured me that I wouldn't have to worry about her selling the listing herself via Dual Agency. (the thought had never entered my mind, as…
Insight into blog readers’ minds
They come from all over and provide tremendous insight into what's on consumers' minds. In no particular order: - can a builder discriminate against a realtor - sure, why not? But if that Realtor has a qualified buyer, what good would come from shooting yourself…
Dual Agency under fire in Virginia?
From the head of the Commonwealth of Virginia's Real Estate Board, Schaefer Oglesby: We are still seeing numerous cases involving dangerous practice of dual agency. Remember, if something goes wrong with the transaction, you are probably at fault. (italics and bolding mine)The newsletter is here…
Being selective
Or, how does Buyer Agency/Buyer Brokerage/ Exclusive Buyer Representation benefit the agent and the Buyer? There has been a lot of discussion at RCG and Bloodhound recently about Buyers' Agency and the associated compensation. I can speak specifically about the Commonwealth of Virginia's Buyers' Agency…
Default position
I had occasion to show a new construction development this afternoon. I arrived early, before my clients, and talked to the on-site agent for a few minutes. They have a stock form for the public that states "Buyer Brokerage is available." I asked her how…