If you KNOW that the agent is acting against your interests . . . then there ain't even a question.

Here's the thing. Personality issues? People are people. Realtors, surprise, are People, too. So, sometimes, we're rude, sometimes we're charming, and some of us are always one or the other.

But there are standards of behavior. Realtors(r) subscribe to a Code of Ethics, and Illinois has laws regarding the Duties of Real Estate Licensees. Acting as YOUR agent, she is wrong to advise the other party as to your pliability or softness - without your consent.

The thing that's weird to me is that this story indicates that the Agent is not the Listing Agent, yet she's tight with the Seller. Not tight enough to get the listing, mind you - but tight enough to talk about the buyer.

I encourage you to confront the Agent. You can always discuss the matter with the Agents Managing Broker of the affiliated realty company and or the Peoria Area Association of Realtors if you feel there has been a conflict of interest.

I am glad the agent wanted to show you other homes. But, if she is not the listing agent on the home you wrote the offer on, she should be representing your best interests as you are her client. It does sound like she MIGHT be a dual agent on this however, if she is indeed talking to the seller all the time. If not, she has no business discussing this directly with the seller. You may want to consider another agent and home if you feel that you are not being represented fairly and rudely by your agent. You are right to say if the price is not right, you will find another...and go do it.

When an agent represents both parties in a transaction, it is called dual agency. It is difficult for some agents to handle dual agency properly, especially if they already have a longstanding relationship with one of the parties. This agent should have discussed this with you upon your 1st meeting.

Have you entered into an exclusive respesentation agreement with the agent? If not, you may want to consider finding an agent you feel will aggressively, or at minimum, fairly represent you. If you have entered into an agreement, consider discussing your options with the broker of the firm he or she works for. There are an overwhelming homes on the market. If you are still uncomfortable with how negotiations are being handled and the agent or broker is unwilling to meet your needs, find a new agent and home altogether. A home is the largest investment most consumers make. You really need to be confident that you have an agent that is representing your interests and negotiating on your behalf.

Misty Turnbull, ABR, GRI, Realtor, Mnagaing Broker
Keller Williams Premier Realty, Stark County, IL

Hi!
Sorry to hear you're in the middle of a mess and the agent is being rude to you. Have you signed anything with this agent, any type of buyer representation agreement? I'm guessing the agent is the listing agent for the house you are interested in as well? Sticky situation but if you haven't signed any type of agreement and are not comfortable with consenting to dual agency, then you should be able to find a buyer's agent to represent you solely.
Hope this helps. Good luck!

Melissa Stevenson

Get help! BUYER AGENCY, An agency relationship in which the broker/agent represents the interests of the buyer. At the minimum the "rude agent" should provide you with fair and honest dealing, and disclosure.

YOU NEED TO DEAL WITH an exclusive buyer agent [naeba.org] He/she will show you what is a good house for you and guide you at every step of the process.
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