We sometimes hear real estate agents brag about “getting both sides of the deal” — meaning they represent both the buyer and seller in one transaction.
It sounds like they score twice the commission, for just a little extra work.
That may not show the full picture. “06880” asked our friends at KMS Team at Compass about “dual representation.”
They said: “The listing agent has a considerably heftier lift — more time, more responsibility, more liability, and more room for misunderstanding.
“Representing both sides responsibly takes deep expertise, patience, and an unwavering commitment to ethics. Yet some sellers even manage to negotiate a lower overall commission rate, should the buyer come direct.
“Buyers may come directly to a listing — unrepresented — not out of manipulation, but because they feel empowered. They may have done a few online searches, think they can navigate the process themselves, and sometimes even expect a discount because ‘there’s no buyer’s agent involved.’
“Maybe they believe the process is simpler with fewer people involved.
This new construction on Dogwood Lane includes 6 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. The 9,100-square foot home is listed for $10.65 million.
“From the listing agent’s perspective, these direct buyers usually come with a set of challenges. They may be less informed about market conditions, unfamiliar with the intricacies of the buying process, and suspicious that the listing agent is prioritizing the seller’s interests — which, of course, they are required to do (see our blog on agency relationships). This dynamic can create confusion and tension.
“When there’s no buyer’s agent in the mix, all the responsibilities of guiding, educating, and facilitating the buyer’s side don’t go away — they simply shift to the listing agent. Managing the timeline, addressing questions, coordinating with their attorney, lender, appraiser, inspectors, decorators, architects and even liaising with a condo board to complete detailed due diligence are all tasks that fall to the listing agent.
“In a properly balanced transaction, both the buyer and the seller have professional advocates. The buyer’s agent explains market context, strategizes around offers, financing, inspections and contingencies, helps manage overall expectations and makes sure crucial details aren’t missed. Meanwhile, the listing agent focuses on marketing and presenting the property, negotiating in their client’s best interest, and keeping the transaction on track.
“Both roles are separate, but equally crucial. Each agent helps streamline communication, protect their client’s interests, and reduce risk. Great deals happen when both sides are represented by skilled professionals who know their roles, respect the process, and work collaboratively toward a smooth closing.
“Because real estate transactions aren’t just about houses — they’re about people, emotions, and major life decisions.”
(“06880” reports regularly on the Westport real estate scene — and everything else in town. If you enjoy coverage like this, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)