ChitownLiving | Chicago Real Estate + Life

Listing agents please do not put me in a compromising position.  The only reason I ever show a property to a buyer is because it may meet their needs or they ask to see it.  Buyer agent bonuses like enhanced commissions, or cash bonuses do nothing to sway me.  They do not enter into my thinking as the goal is to find the perfect place for my client, regardless of compensation.  I never want to be placed in the position of addressing an allegation from a buyer client such as “You only showed us the property because they offered a 3.5% commission.”  I don’t need or want your false incentive.

If you truly want to offer an incentive, offer it to my client.  Buy down their loan, offer to pay their assessments for 1 year, offer them cash back to cover closing costs, lower the price, or throw in the obligatory flat screen TV (Which by the way, you can pick up for next to nothing at ABT Electronics so I guess it isn’t much of an incentive.)  Get creative but just don’t offer it to me as I don’t care or want it.

It is not about sales, but about representing clients and fiduciary responsibility.  Lack of true client representation is one of the reasons I got into the Chicago real estate biz in the first place.  Ardell says it best so refer to the excellent post at Rain City Guide.  Read the article at Rain City Guide: Buyer Agent Bonuses.

I have never sold a home, but assisted many clients in making a proper purchase decision.  Hire an agent who understands the agency relationship.