Potential Risks with Allowing Agent to Rep Me (Buyer) and Seller

[Brianna M.]

Hi BP - what's the downside to having an agent represent both me as the buyer and the seller? The agent sent me their listing, I offered on it, and eventually got my offer accepted. This is for a buy and hold rental. Am I now obligated to have the agent represent me? Would there be something unethical about seeking my own buyer's agent at this point? This agent has been sending me properties over the last couple of months (their listings, others' listings, and off market). I have not signed a buyer representation agreement at this point. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.