Here is yet another example of the need for Buyers and Sellers to insist on exclusive representation. How can a REALTOR expect to provide professional service to a client (buyer or seller) and work both sides of the transaction?

NOTE: Exclusive representation does NOT mean always representing only buyers or sellers. REALTORS can still be listing and selling agents. It means only representing one side of a particular transaction.

While our industry continuously tries to tell the public we are educated dedicated professionals, at every turn there are multiple instances of dual agency or designated representation. Just check the local MLS statistics and it will be obvious how many REALTORS actually sell their own listings as dual agents. Is this the greed factor?

Yes, it is the greed factor. A true professional would realize the need to never let the transaction get in the way of client service. In the end, using this philosphy, the cost of doing business goes down, the level of trust goes up and the referrals more than make up for a commission collected on half of a single transaction.

A public education program (especially at the national level) promoting exclusive representation would, in my humble opinion, go a long way in raising the level of professionalism in this industry by showing the consumer they have a choice that would be in their best interest, not ours.

Should one care to make the comparision: Labor and Management NEVER hire the same attorney. They are on opposite sides of the transaction (contract negotiations). Why should Buyers and Sellers accept less from a professional REALTOR?

Ann Butler
Recommended Realty Associates, Inc.
Fairfax, VA
(A strong advocate of EXCLUSIVE Representation)