Most people’s understanding of the difference between a buyer’s agent and a listing agent boils down to the following: buyer’s agents represent the party purchasing a home and listing agents represent the party selling a home. While this is true it is a very general statement. Both types of agents play specific roles in helping your home purchasing or selling needs.

Buyer’s agents assist buyers in finding properties. A buyer will give the agent a list of criteria that they need their house to meet such as price, location, size, etc. and the agent will go out and search for houses that meet that criteria. A buyer’s agent is especially helpful because they may be aware of properties that aren’t listed online or in newspapers. Agents generally have a long list of contacts they can call on to aid them in their search for a house. Buyer’s agents can also help dictate which property is best for you. They have the ability to research the history of the property and spot any problems that might currently exist or might arise in the near future. Because not everyone understands the housing market, buyer’s agents are especially helpful when making an offer on a house. They can ensure that your offer isn’t too generous but isn’t so low that it will insult the seller. This makes the difference between the seller seriously considering your offer or not taking the time to work with you. Lastly, the buyer’s agent will make sure that all the contract contingencies are met and that the deal is finalized and closed.

Listing agents perform similar tasks but with a different twist on each. A listing agent helps in valuing your property and make sure it is properly priced. Their goal is to sell your property for the highest price, in the shortest period of time and with as little trouble as possible. They may suggest any improvements that should be made to the house and can help prioritize those improvements to ensure that the seller’s property is as attractive to a buyer as possible. A listing agent also works towards marketing your property. This goes beyond putting a sign on your front lawn and putting a listing online or in the newspaper. Listing agents will market to other agents in their network and especially to buyer’s agents. They can also place your home in MLS listing, which generally only listing agents have the ability to do. Listing agents can present your property and negotiate prices on your behalf. They will likely have a better understanding of whether the market will bring about a better offer or whether you should seriously consider accepting an offer. They can also help walk you through the legal details when accepting an offer. Much like a buyer’s agent, a listing agent will also follow through on any contract contingencies and make sure that all the conditions are met so that the sale closes smoothly and the buyer does not decide to back out of the deal.

Jay A. Kumar

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