Dual Agency?

[Mitch H.]

Is Dual Agency something to be avoided?

Situation:  I went to a rental showing because I was interested in purchasing within the building at some point.  The showing agent happened to be the owner of the unit, who is also a Realtor.  I think this agent could provide me with an inside track to purchasing a unit in the building, but this would likely lead to dual agency.  Obviously this leads to a conflict of interest, and essentially a loss of someone 'on my side' through the transaction. 

What do you guys think of situations like this? 

[James Wise]

pros & cons

Pro-is if he sells it to you he doesn't have to pay anyone a commission.

Con-you may be a novice and open to being taken advantage of.

An experienced buyer its a no brainer buy directly from the owner. In a novice situation it becomes more tricky.