All Forum Posts by: Paul Howard

Unless the agent told you upfront that they were a dual agent and got your written permission the agent acted illegally and you should report the agent to the real estate commission for your state. It doesn't matter if it is a 'pocket listing' or not. Also, in many areas pocket listings are a violation of the rules of the MLS - if the agent is a member of the MLS. If you proceed you should use an attorney since it may be too late to get your own agent.

You have a lot of answers saying go with the dual agent/seller's existing agent.  I disagree.  Legally a dual agent must treat both parties equally. In reality you have no idea whether the agent has a prior (in addition to the listing) relationship or is even a relative.  They do NOT always treat both parties equally and have been giving advice to the seller as a advocate all along.  
You made a mistake in even looking at the property with the seller's agent and you may end up paying for it in that you don't have anyone to help you even the playing field with due diligence.  Of course, if you are a sophisticated investor and truely do not need anyone to advocate for you go for it.  But, since you are asking I'd say you would have been better off with your own advocate.  A lesson hopefuly you have learned.  Good luck.  Oh, next time try  to find your own agent.  Suze Orman has a good link to find a buyer's agent in her Home Ownership section 

https://www.suzeorman.com/resources/home-ownership

He can't be a dual agent if he has an ownership interest.  He can only be a seller's agent because he can't provide the neutrality required of a dual agent.

You are right to be concerned.