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obligation to buyer broker?

Started by oymog
over 15 years ago
Posts: 27
Member since: Apr 2010
Discussion about
I've been to a few showings with this broker, but I'm not satisfied with him because I'm clearly the one doing the search on streeteasy, give him the listings I want to see, and he shows them to me. I've definitely been spending way more time searching out apts than him: isn't it his job to be doing that? Also, isn't a good broker supposed to notify me of a new listing or price change ASAP? I have no contract with him, so can I legally move on to a different agent or go solo? All the contact info I need is on streeteasy, right?
Response by tina24hour
over 15 years ago
Posts: 720
Member since: Jun 2008

I gave the same reply in the other thread, but here goes again:

If you are not planning on bidding on any of the properties he has shown you, there should be no further obligations. If you feel you are getting all the information you need from Streeteasy, and if you have the time to do the additional research and legwork, you may be fine setting up appointments and negotiating the deal on your own. Not everyone has the time or the skill set for self-representation, which is why brokers are still necessary. (People can do their own oil changes, cut their own hair, and clean their own houses, too). If you choose to move on, please let the agent know asap, as a final courtesy. It doesn't have to be unpleasant.

Do remember that if you do choose to move ahead without a buy-side agent, that doesn't mean you will enter into "a no broker deal" - if the seller has contracted a listing agent, you will be dealing with that person throughout the process. Just because you feel comfortable acting as your own agent doesn't mean the seller feels the same way! And if there is a signed agreement between the seller and the listing agent, trying to go around the broker makes you look a little underhanded at best. If the property is being offered by owner, however, you should have a smooth time of it - just get your lawyers talking and hope for a meeting of the minds.

Whatever you decide, best of luck. I hope you find the search exciting and rewarding, which it can be. Try to enjoy the adventure.

Tina
(Brooklyn broker)

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