Disqus - Latest Comments for GeorgeB

Re: Sponsored Post – Realtor.com Has a Cool New Mobile App

George Black — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 23:35:26 -0000

Yes I am--an exclusive buyer agent (entire brokerage dedicated to buyer representation; don't list property or represent sellers) for about 12 years. BTW I met you in Columbus Ohio about 4 years ago at a social networking conference. Kind of kept up with you since then online. I now practice in Johnson City, TN.

Re: Sponsored Post – Realtor.com Has a Cool New Mobile App

George Black — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 11:52:42 -0000

Clearly it is the consumer's choice to engage a buyer's agent or not, Chris. Shouldn't it be an informed choice? At early stages of a home search, many buyers are unaware of risks involved or choices available to them. A naïve buyer who places himself in direct contact with the professional agent representing the seller is at a significant disadvantage and may compromise his position in subsequent negotiations.

In the interest of fairness to consumers the contact feature ought to display some kind of warning or advisory. One possibility: "Be advised that this agent represents the seller of the property. As a buyer you are entitled to your own exclusive representation. Unrepresented buyers engaging directly with a seller’s representative may find their options for representation unnecessarily limited.”

Re: Sponsored Post – Realtor.com Has a Cool New Mobile App

George Black — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 09:48:40 -0000

Chris, the "call/email this guy directly" feature apparently connects the user with the listing agent for the property--the guy representing the sellers. That’s not a good thing if you are a potential buyer. Buyers deserve and have a right to their own exclusive representation. Contacting the agent for the sellers directly can compromise that right and potentially damage the buyer's negotiating position.