Who’s Really Representing You? Why Every Buyer Deserves Their Own Advocate

In the world of luxury real estate, where emotions run high and financial stakes are even higher, there’s a common line of thinking that many buyers fall into: "Maybe I should just go directly to the listing agent. They know the property best, they have the inside scoop, and maybe I’ll get a better deal."

It’s an understandable impulse. After all, who wouldn’t want the most direct path to success in what could be one of the most significant purchases of their life? But here’s the truth that too often gets overlooked: the listing agent works for the seller.

And by "works for," I mean legally, contractually, and ethically.

Let’s take a closer look at how this works, and why savvy buyers - especially those in high-end markets like Watch Hill, Weekapaug, and Stonington - should think twice before bypassing their own representation.

The Fiduciary Duty: Who’s on Whose Side?

In nearly every real estate transaction, the listing agent has a signed agreement with the seller, making them the seller’s representative. This means the agent has a fiduciary responsibility to that seller. They are bound to put the seller’s interests first, to maintain confidentiality, and to negotiate in a manner that benefits the seller.

That listing agent may be warm, welcoming, and highly professional. But at the end of the day, they are not your advocate. Their duty is to achieve the best price and terms for the person who hired them - not for you.

So while it may seem tempting to think you’ll gain privileged insight or receive a smoother transaction by going straight to the listing agent, what you’re really doing is walking into a negotiation without your own strategist, negotiator, and protector.

What You’re Missing Without a Buyer’s Agent

When you choose to be represented by your own agent - someone who knows the local landscape, understands the market nuances, and is focused solely on your best interests - you gain several key advantages:

• Unfiltered advice. A buyer’s agent will tell you the hard truths when necessary: if the home is overpriced, if there are zoning issues, if the neighborhood dynamics are shifting, or if the seller’s timeline can be leveraged in your favor.

• Confidentiality. You want to be able to share your true thoughts and financial limits with someone. You can’t do that with the listing agent - because their loyalty lies elsewhere.

• Negotiation power. A skilled buyer’s agent isn’t just looking to "get the deal done." They’re looking to get it done right. That may mean negotiating further, uncovering hidden costs, or in some cases, advising you to walk away altogether.

The Fallacy of the "Inside Scoop"

One of the main arguments buyers make for going directly to the listing agent is that they’ll get insider knowledge. But let’s be clear: any "inside information" that could hurt the seller’s position cannot - and ethically should not - be shared by the listing agent.

So what is it, really, that you’re hoping to gain? If the agent is acting within the bounds of their fiduciary duty (as they should), the information they can give you is the same that would be shared with any interested party.

In contrast, your own agent can go out and get real answers for you: researching comparable sales, talking to town officials, examining permits and disclosures, and doing the kind of legwork that helps you make the most informed decision.

The Myth of the Better Deal

There’s another belief that sometimes surfaces: "If I go to the listing agent directly, maybe they’ll reduce the commission and I’ll get a better deal."

This is often wishful thinking. In most cases, the commission is pre-negotiated between the seller and their broker. If there’s a reduction, it doesn’t necessarily translate into savings for the buyer. In fact, without your own advocate, you may end up paying more - because no one is pushing back on your behalf.

The Ethics and Realities of Double-Ending a Deal

Now, let me be honest: Are there times when one agent represents both the buyer and the seller? Absolutely. There are deals where both parties are fully informed, the agent is transparent about their dual role, and everything proceeds smoothly and ethically.

I’ve personally been in those situations - and I’ve also walked away from them when I felt a buyer deserved their own representation. There have been many times when a buyer came to me directly, and rather than double-end the transaction, I introduced them to a trusted colleague to represent their interests. Why? Because it’s the right thing to do.

It might not be what’s best for my bank account - but it’s what’s best for my client. And ultimately, my business has grown because of that integrity.

You Deserve Someone in Your Corner

Buying real estate, especially at the luxury level, is not just a financial transaction - it’s an emotional journey. You deserve someone who’s entirely in your corner. Someone whose job is to protect you, advise you, and, when necessary, tell you something the listing agent can’t or won’t.

The relationship you build with your agent should be rooted in trust, loyalty, and shared goals. That’s very different from trying to share an agent with the other side of the negotiating table.

In Conclusion: Advocate First, Deal Second

The idea of going straight to the listing agent may seem efficient, or even advantageous, at first glance. But if you take a moment to ask yourself who’s truly looking out for your best interests, the answer becomes clear.

In most cases, the smarter path is to work with someone whose loyalty lies with you - and only you. Someone who will go the extra mile, fight for the best terms, and offer honest guidance, even if it means not closing the deal.

I’ve built my career by putting people before paychecks. And that means ensuring that my clients - buyers and sellers alike - have the representation they deserve.

If you’re considering a purchase in Rhode Island or Eastern Connecticut, and you want a dedicated advocate in your corner, I’d be honored to help.

Reach out anytime.

Warm regards,

Geb Masterson
Licensed Broker Associate in RI & CT
William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty
[email protected]
714.473.8530