Negotiating With Agent-Represented Seller

[Mitchel Gendelman]

Hi BiggerPockets Community! 

Apologies if this is a bit of a newbie-question, I am still in the learning phase of REI. In all of the reading and listening to the BP podcast, I hear people talk about all these great ways to negotiate with a seller. However, they talk about all these tactics and approaches (Being empathetic to the seller's needs, finding out the seller's true motivation to sell, presenting 2 offers) as if there is a direct dialogue occurring between the buyer and seller.

Generally speaking, are they referring to negotiating leads that come to them from a FSBO, their uncle Bob's neighbor who might want to sell, or any kind of lead without a realtor in the middle? (I am very aware that these kinds of leads are the best and often lead to the best deals) Or, can the majority of these tactics be used when they are realtor-represented homes?

Specific to my situation, I have been finding many great leads through the MLS and interact with the seller's realtor for the showing/information. Are there ways to interact with the seller from a negotiation standpoint even when they have a realtor representing them? Does a realtor create a significant extra barrier that makes negotiating a great deal more difficult? Obviously they are paid based on how much the home sells for an it is in their best interest to get the highest possible price, but what degree of influence is it possible to have on the seller when you are interacting with their realtor when looking at their property?

Any and all input is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[Brandon Sturgill]

@Mitchel Gendelman Agents enter what's called an agency relationship...there is a lot to it, but they are the sellers agent and run point on the listing...meaning you getting to the seller directly will cause a stir...odds are the agent will run interference at every level...and if you do get through to the seller, you're likely going to get a "talk to my agent" reply.

How does speaking with the seller benefit you in this situation?...are you trying to structure a purchase money mortgage or other creative financed deal?...

There are some possible benefits to having a single agent...meaning they will try to run dual agency and collect both sides of the commission...you can typically negotiate commission down a bit and reduce your offer price.