Acting as Your Own Real Estate Agent

Yes, you can represent yourself in a real estate transaction. Anyone can act as their own agent, even without a license. However, licensed agents have access to special resources and listings that may make the process easier.

Disclosing Professional Relationships

The tricky part comes when you have a professional relationship with the other party’s agent. For example, if the seller uses a colleague as their agent, a conflict of interest can arise. Your colleague may want to help you, but they also have a legal obligation to work for the seller.

You and your colleague can disclose this situation to the seller in writing. If the seller agrees, the deal can proceed. This scenario follows the same ethical and legal rules as dual agency, where one agent represents both buyer and seller.

Proceed with Caution

Even if you act with integrity, the seller may still question the outcome. This could result in a lawsuit, even with a signed disclosure. Legal fees and potential damage to your reputation can be costly. It’s best to avoid situations that could create legal or ethical risks.

Alternative Strategies

Instead, focus on homes listed by sellers you do not know or by firms you haven’t worked with. This reduces potential conflicts and keeps the process straightforward. In smaller markets or tight networks, this approach can be challenging, but it minimizes risk.