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Unrepresented Buyer Wants to Make an Offer on Agent's Listing

Updated: Nov 21, 2022



It's important to note the following:

A. Even if there is a deadline on offers, sometimes, but not always, buyers and sellers will be willing to agree to something prior to the deadline if the offer from the buyers is particularly enticing, especially in cases with a long deadline. Expeditious showings after properties hit the market & expeditious offers are very important.

B. Be sure to include a preapproval &/or proof of funds with your offer.


There are a variety of options for how you could go about an offer:


1. The typical approach, which around 86% of buyers opt for, is to make an offer with an agent. There are different approaches to that:


Designated Agency: Listing Agent Represents Seller & An Agent from the Same Firm Represents Buyer (Adam's #1 Recommendation if You're Looking to Buy His Listing & Use an Agent While Not Currently Working with One)

Even within this category, there is more than one option:


1. (Adam's #1 Recommendation if You're Looking to Buy His Listing & Use an Agent While Not Currently Working with One) If you're not already working with an agent at the listing agent's firm, & don't have an existing exclusive buyer brokerage agreement with another agent going, you can reach out to the listing agent for a referral to another agent. By reaching out directly to the listing agent, you can have a higher likelihood of the listing agent connecting you with an agent that they are comfortable with and that they have worked with in the past. When I am representing the seller, and refer buyers to an agent, it's typically my father, Greg Garrett, who may have helped more buyers/sellers to close on real estate transactions in my primary coverage area than anyone living. Who was #1 in many cities/counties in my area for years. My father may not always be available though, and it's best to reach out to me in this scenario for the best option.


Be sure to let Adam know if going this route about if you'd like Adam to represent you if this property doesn't work out or if you're an investor who would be looking to buy again right after closing and would want to work with Adam at that time. That way he can let the agent that he refers your way know in order to set expectations. Here's more information on what Adam offers buyers.


2. If you're already working with an agent at the listing agent's firm other than the listing agent, you'll be involved in an offer where if you get under contract, a designated agency would be involved.


3. If you're not already working with an agent at the listing agent's firm, & don't have an existing exclusive buyer brokerage agreement with another agent going, you can reach out directly to another agent at the listing agent's firm.

Dual Agency: Listing Agent Represents Buyer & Seller

Using an Agent Outside of the Listing Agent's Firm

How A Referral From the Listing Agent Can Help

When Not to Seek a Referral from the Listing Agent



2. Unrepresented Buyer (No Agent Representation)

Your Chances of Making a Mistake

If you go this route, you have the highest risk of making a mistake, especially if you haven't purchased many homes before. The listing agent should be honest, but it would be against their duties to the seller to point out any negatives about the home that you didn't ask about.

Increased Risk for the Seller

Reduce Commissions for Sellers

How to Better Your Chances if Buying Unrepresented

Offer Template


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