Try to explain that they are at a disadvantage doing that and that I can help negotiate. Also that a buyers agent does not cost them anything

Hi Sandra -- and do you realize who the listing agent is representing?   How does this benefit you?

The unrepresented buyer has no idea what to ask, what to communicate and the experienced agent working for the seller . . .does!  

"Mr. and Mrs. Buyer, I understand and appreciate your willingness to work closely with the seller. The listing agent owes his allegiance to the seller, and no matter how hard they try, they can't be 100% loyal to both parties. It won't cost you any more to have me on your side, and it very well may save you money because I'll be looking out for your interests every step of the way. Now let's get to the terms of your offer."

Tell her that the listing agent works for the seller and is not likely to look out for her interests, the way a buyer's agent would.

I have a personal story that happened to a buyer who called me intsead of the listing agent.  I ended up saving her $25,000 and I always tell prospective buyers that would never have happened if she had contacted the listing agent first.

I let them know that the listing agent represents the seller.  And, if they think they know real estate well enough to be able to negotiate a deal as an unrepresented buyer, than good luck to them.

PS: I just listed a home where the buyer did just this and did not realize that the home was right next to the railroad tracks.  She is currently trying to sue everyone involved.

Leave them alone!

Michael J nailed this one!

I explain how their negotiating position is compromised as that agent represents the seller and not the buyer. Afterall, seller has representation, why shouldn't the buyer?

I have found that there is no way to reason with a "SIGN" caller and that they think they are going to get a "better deal" by going through the listing agent.  Next . . . .  .

Sandra Paulow - do we really need to respond to these buyers? At least one thing I know - they cannot be my buyers! 

I have had them insult me with, "the listing agent would know more about the house than you do". Wanna bet?

If you were going to court over a civil matter, would you seek advise from the opposing attorney, or get your own attorney.

Would you consider asking the car salesman if he thinks the asking price is too high?  Would you confide in the car salesman, that you really love his car, and want it at any price?

Seller is paying the full sales commision regardless, whether you secure the services of an agent to represent your best interest or not.  Having an agent who represents you exclusively, better insures your chances of not winding up in court (at additional costs to you.

Act in YOUR OWN TRUE BEST INTEREST--Hire an agent who is contractually obligated to act in YOUR best interest!

Hi Sandra,

I tell them it is not in their best interest to work with the selling agent.

I say that is great if you are not concerned that the listing agent is working in the best interest of the seller.  If you have a buyers agent they are working for you and your best interest.

the answer to that is: if the seller wanted to communicate directly, he/she would not have hired an agent..... the answer is "no"....

Sandra,

This is a tricky situation, one that could cast a bad light on the other agent when you claim that  you are representing them, whereas the other agent represents the seller.  In CA we can do a dual representation.  

The agents we worked  were the best...the other 10% got an occasional listing.  We always represented where the deal could be made at, and not how to take advantage of the last nickel on the table.  So I could never say that they would ONLY represent the seller...that would be a lie.

What I always said, is that my knowledge of the market place was so superior that anyone else's, that I knew where all the bones were buried, and who would be willing to sell, when something was not listed.

If that did not make sense to them, I was happy to let go of them.  If someone does not see your value, they will never see it, no matter what you do to convince them.  A

I am pleased I have not had that request.  Would need explain they have hired me to keep their best interests protected and the sellers agent is working for the sellers and has their interests in mind.  Interesting question.  Mark