Are You Allowed To Use Multiple Real Estate Agents?
You're really ready to buy a home and frustrated that you can't seem to find one. Instead of working with just one real estate agent, you're thinking about finding a second person to help with the search. Sometimes home buyers don't seem to mesh well with their existing agent and want to seek out a second person that's been recently recommended or perhaps one that's more available to them. No matter what your reasoning is for wanting to use a second agent, is it really okay to do so?
There's no doubt that real estate agents work hard and spend a significant amount of time working for each of their clients. It's not always possible to see all of the work they're doing for you behind the scenes to help you navigate the home buying process. Typically, agents coordinate appointments, research listings to find potential leads for buyers, schedule showings, and handle numerous real estate documents, according to Investopedia.
Still, if you're unhappy with the results, can you hire someone else?
The answer could surprise you
It is possible to work with more than one real estate agent in most situations. There are no laws that say you cannot do that unless you've said you will ... A buyer-broker exclusivity agreement could limit your ability to work with more than one real estate agent. This is a contract you sign with a real estate agent that promises you will work with just one firm or agent to buy your home. You cannot change that agent or add other agents to the process, says ContractsCounsel.
This type of agreement typically has a set number of days or months in which it applies. That means after that period passes, then you can decide to move on to another agent if you want to do so. Most often, your real estate agent will ask you to sign this type of agreement early on in the relationship to lock you into working with just them. However, it's not required to sign if you don't feel comfortable sticking with just one person (especially in the early stages of house hunting).
What if you don't want to use just one?
Agents certainly want buyers to sign a buyer-broker exclusivity agreement because it helps protect them and all the work they are doing for you and ensures they'll get paid if you buy a home. You don't have to decide to use one, though. You can ask the agent not to require it, though some will.
In most states, this contract is enforceable, which means if you break the contract's stipulations, you could face penalties in the form of fees or other legal action. Keep in mind that your agent also has to maintain their side of the deal. If they break any of the agreements, such as due to a breach of trust, you may be able to get out of it, according to Home Light.
The better option is to work hard to ensure you have the right real estate agent. Interview a few before choosing one. Be sure your personalities don't clash, and you genuinely like the agent. Review their reputation in the area, too.