Pros and cons of dual agent

[Michael Stole]

Some states, like Indiana, allow dual agent, and some don't. Even in states where dual agent is allowed, some agencies don't allow it themselves. This makes me think of pros and cons of dual agency.

The pro I can come up right away is fast sale. If one of your buyers happen to be a perfect match of one of your listings, there is really no point of getting another agent involved. On this respect, dual agency is good to everyone, the agent, the seller, and the buyer. Also, agents love dual agency because they can get double commission.

The disadv is that a single agent can never represent the best interest of both clients. Thats obvious. So the problem is who's interest will is given the priority?

Also, for those agents who have such experience. When u get a listing, did u look out for the opportunity of dual agent, so u show it firstly to your buyers before listing it publicly, or let it come naturally. Or most of the time, it is the investor who approached u and requested for dual representation? :roll:

[Scot King]

It can be done. Here in CA, full disclosure is required regarding agency relationships. A listing agent can never tell his seller that a buyer is willing to pay more and a buyers agent cannot inform the buyer that the seller will accept a lower price. It can be pulled off by a good ethical seasoned agent.