Can Cash Buyers Submit Offers Directly to Sellers' Agents?

[Mike Romano]

As a cash buyer, if I come across a deal on the MLS, can I submit the offer directly to the seller's agent, or do I need my own agent? Would this increase my chances of the offer being accepted, considering the seller wouldn't have to pay an agent on my side?

Thank you in advance!

[John Karg]

Hi Mike,

Yes, you can submit an offer without a buyer's agent representing you, but the seller won't save any money as they already have an agreement to pay a certain commission to their agent, which that agent then splits with the buyer's agent. When there is no buyer's agent, the seller's agent keeps the full commission amount as they technically become your agent as well and will represent both sides in the transaction. 

Therefore, the only way this could help you is the fact that the seller's agent will likely push your offer more with the seller, as it gives them the chance to earn double the commission. The seller themself won't have any additional incentive to choose your offer however, so it's debatable how much this will really help you. I personally think it's more worthwhile to you overall to use your own agent. 

John