Chris,

First, listing agents are required to present all offers received, to the seller in a timely manner. Timely is often considered within 24 hours, unless there are circumstances that prevent it.

Second, do everything in writing (email is acceptable) and verify receipt. If need be, have your offer delivered to the listing agent's office and record who you gave the offer to and the time and date.

Third, put a time limit on how long your offer is good for. Depending on your market, that might be as little as 6 hours, more typical is 24 to 48 hours, or it could be longer if your market just does things slowly.

If you don't get any response, communicate back to the listing agent as to the status of the offer. If you're not comfortable that your offer has been presented to the seller, and you don't get a response you're happy with from the listing agent, you should be within your rights to take the offer directly to the seller yourself. Add a cover letter that has the record of your previous attempts to deliver the offer to the listing agent for the seller. If the seller is seeing your offer in this fashion for the first time, then fireworks will probably start between them and their agent.

If you can get an indication that the seller had not seen your offer prior to your presenting it to them, I'd considered filing an ethics complaint.

Good luck,

Jeffrey

Hi Chris,
The way your question is worded I think you are saying that the agents want to represent both parties. If this is what you mean than you should contact a broker and get your own reresntation, if this is your desire. As for them refusing to accept offers, agents dont accept offers the seller either accepts or rejects, the agent is to present all offers. Check your state regulations, then protect your rights
Dave

Troll.

Unfrotunately my answer needs more letters, but that says it all.