RealTown's RealTalk

Whether it is an A16 violation or ethics violation or not, it is VERY bad business. I market my listings to REALTORS because that is predominantly where you get your sales. I put high co-brokes, I do my job, I thank them profusely. I tell their clients how lucky they are to have them as their agent, I'll help with whatever I have to do if the BA can't do it, and they trust me because they know that I won't try to steal their clients. Not only that, but I've had some of their clients call me and ask 'if I use you, can I get a better deal since you have the listing?" My answer is always NO. Then I call the BA and tell them what they did. One of these guys was supposedly a good friend too. What goes around, comes around. This results in more showings of my listings because I've built up a reputation with the highest number of people that can help me move properties in less DOM. The 'one time shot' buyer that you double dip is not worth the money you will lose by getting a bad reputation with the agents in your area. Not to mention that it's a tacky and unprofessional way to get business. Use me, not because I'm good but I'll pay you? lol. yeah, that would be the agent I would want to use to help me with one of the biggest investments of my life. >>>I had a student ask me a question the other day that has me thinking, and I'd like other input on it. As a buyer's agent, she went to show a listing in the MLS, listed through another company. It was a scheduled appointment (listing agent knew she and her client would be going through the house). Throughout the house were, for lack of a better term, 'ads' promoting the use of the listing agent as a buyer, e.g. "Buy through Agent X and receive up to $10,000 in benefits!" "Buy though Agent X and get a free home inspection!" All of the information indicated that these benefits were available only if the buyer uses Agent X. She asked: isn't this a violation of Article 16--I'm in there with my client, and the listing agent is trying to entice my client to dump me and go with him...so..what do you guys think?