Why You Should Never Use the Listing Agent as a Buyer (Even on New Construction)

❌ Why You Should Never Use the Listing Agent as a Buyer

It sounds simple:
“If I just use the listing agent, I’ll save money… right?”

Not only is that a dangerous myth—it could cost you thousands.

🤔 What Is the Listing Agent’s Job?

The listing agent was hired by the seller to:

• Get them the highest possible price

• Market the home in the best light

• Negotiate favorable terms for the seller

Even if they say they’ll “help both sides,” the law—and their contract—binds them to the seller first.

⚖️ What Is Dual Agency?

In some states, agents can technically represent both sides (called dual agency). But:

• It’s not legal everywhere

• You waive your right to full representation

• The agent becomes a neutral “facilitator”—not your advocate

In Utah, dual agency is legal but must be disclosed in writing. That still doesn’t mean it’s wise.

💸 Will I Save Money Without a Buyer’s Agent?

No. Here's why:

• Commission is already built into the price and paid by the seller

• Builders don’t give you a discount if you go unrepresented

• Some even pay the same amount whether you have an agent or not

So who gets that money if you don’t have an agent?
Usually—the listing agent or brokerage. Not you.

🛡️ What a Buyer’s Agent Actually Does for You

Your buyer’s agent:

• Runs comps and protects you from overpaying

• Spots red flags in the home (or builder’s fine print)

• Negotiates better price, terms, repairs, and timelines

• Connects you with trusted local inspectors and lenders

• Navigates complex situations like appraisals, soil reports, STR zoning, and disclosures

Buying a home—especially in Southern Utah—requires more than just opening doors. It requires protection and expertise.

🏗️ New Construction? You Still Need an Agent

Think the builder’s rep will help you? They work for the builder—not you.

And in most cases:

• You don’t save a dime by going directly to the builder

• You lose negotiation power without your own agent

• You sign contracts that protect them, not you

A buyer’s agent can help negotiate upgrades, timeline commitments, and even price drops on standing inventory.

💡 I Learned the Hard Way—So You Don’t Have To

Before I became a real estate agent, I bought a home using the listing agent.
It was a nightmare.
They didn’t have my best interests in mind—and I didn’t even realize it until it was too late.

Later, I bought a new construction home without an agent, thinking I’d save money.
It was my 10th home purchase… I thought I knew what I was doing.

Here’s what actually happened:

• I overpaid

• I missed out on upgrades I probably could’ve negotiated

• I had no one in my corner when issues came up

I found out the hard way—and now, as a full-time agent, I see this mistake happen all the time to buyers who just don’t know better.

That’s why I’m passionate about making sure you don’t go through what I did.

Real Talk: Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.
You deserve to have someone who works for you—not the seller, not the builder, not both.

If you’re even thinking about buying, let’s talk before you walk into that model home or call that listing agent.
I’ll help you avoid the mistakes I made and protect your money from day one.

📞 435-327-5545
🌐 TreasuredProperties.com
🏡 Southern Utah’s trusted buyer advocate

✅ The Bottom Line

If you’re buying a home in Southern Utah, using the listing agent might sound simple—but it’s a risky shortcut.

✅ You won’t save money
✅ You won’t be fully protected
✅ You’ll likely miss out on critical negotiation help

📲 I’m Troy Moultrie, a certified buyer’s agent and negotiation expert. Let’s make sure you don’t buy your dream home with a nightmare contract.

📞 Call/Text: 435-327-5545
🌐 TreasuredProperties.com
Serving St. George, Hurricane, Washington, Ivins, and surrounding areas