Real Estate Round-Up:

Recently we’ve gotten a number of calls from buyers who just want to work with the listing agent directly. Since our business model is primarily with listings, this could be perceived as a real boon to our personal success. But what keeps me up at night is the “why” of this strategy. Apparently buyers believe there is some financial benefit (i.e. not having to pay both agents) if they work with the listing agent directly.

Within the CAR (California Association of Realtors) listing agreement, there is the capacity to reduce the listing agent’s commission if they represent the buyer in the purch...