All Forum Posts by: Ashlee Andrews

Yeah it's a tough position to be in but I agree with the sentiment above that you should be very clear in your communication with any agent you are working with. As an investor, cultivating different lead sources for deals is common. But as a regular homebuyer, agents will definitely expect exclusivity. I do find it strange that the agent/investor would get so offended since she knows how the game is played. But nonetheless, it's good practice for you moving forward. 

And I might add, if she took two weeks to respond to your email, then maybe she's not the right agent for you. There are other people available that can help teach you about investing.

@Ashlee Andrews I think the thing to keep in mind (and this applies directly in this scenario, but really for a lot of your experience with agents), is that in almost all cases, agents are only paid when they close deals. So we're essentially working "for free" when we're first talking. Every agent has a story of a buyer they showed fifteen or twenty homes to before they decided "it wasn't the right time". And the reality of being an agent is simply that that's part of the job. Good agents understand and accept that can happen. But the effect of that is we have to be selective about who we take on and how much we invest in them before we know they're serious.

All that said, if you are waiting that long for a response, that person is just not your agent. They're probably swamped in emails and texts and appointments. Probably from their recurring clientele. Definitely skip.

Hi @Ashlee Andrews.  Great question!  Some good info here. It is frowned upon to work with more than one agent at a time. Agents have to use an exclusive contract to represent you as a buyer.   Now, when they present this is up to them (or rather, their employing broker). And, if one agent gets in a huff about this, find another agent.

Just want to add that for some of my more savvy buyers, I have ever made my exclusive right to buy agreement specific to the address in the additional provisions.  So, I'll ask them to sign the agency agreement when I meet them at the property, specific to the property address.  I do this bc they do their own marketing and I don't think it's fair to charge a commission on a property they found on their own. But, I am covered on my end with a signed agreement.  Maybe a good way to handle the relationship with your agent friend? :)

 There is a difference between talking to a few, and looking at properties with a few. Before I take clients to see properties I have them sign an agreement formally stating that I represent them in my market for buying real estate for X days. This doesn’t mean I cant be fired, but if you end up buying a home an agent showed you, through another agent, the first agent could come asking for commissions for procuring that sale. Big picture, interview as many agents as it takes until you find the right one to work with. If that one does not work out, end the relationship in writing and hire another one.