I have a personal policy of never representing both sides of the same transaction in Ann Arbor Real Estate. I do not practice dual agency.

I have a personal policy of never representing both sides of the same transaction in Ann Arbor Real Estate. I do not practice dual agency.

Why I Do Not Practice Dual Agency

Definition:Dual Agency: A business relationship where the licensee, with written agreement from both parties, works for both the seller and the buyer in the same transaction. Dual agency will limit some of the duties owed to both parties. Dual agents cannot take any action that is adverse or detrimental to either the buyer or the seller in the transaction. For more details, see the explanation given in the Michigan Agency Disclosure http://www.guaranteeteam.com/realestate_agency_disclosure.pdf.

Many realtors ask me why I chose this policy, thereby limiting my income to only one side of the equation.

Here's why:My job, as I see it, is to represent the interests of the person I am working for throughout all phases of the transaction, especially the negotiation phase. When an agent represents both sides, he has access to confidential information on both sides of the negotiation, and cannot, in my opinion, do a proper job representing the interests of the two parties involved.

If you think of it like a boxing match, it may be helpful. Each boxer has a trainer in his corner to guide him between rounds. If each boxer was represented by the same trainer, and he gave advice to each boxer between rounds, which one is getting the best advice? Which one is the trainer really trying to help win? The trainer benefits no matter who wins. Does he really care if the advice he renders is good advice?

It is for these reasons that I have chosen to not practice dual agency. It may cut down on my income opportunities a bit, but I believe I will make up for it with repeat business from clients that know they got the most honest, dedicated level of service possible.

For more information on disclosures go here http://www.guaranteeteam.com/forms.htm.

You are invited to the Smart Home Buyer Seminar Feb. 20th, for details, see www.KathyToth.com.