Every holiday season, the same real estate myths come up in conversation. At dinner tables, at parties, even with strangers. And one in particular keeps circling back, no matter how many times I try to put it to rest.
“As a buyer, I’ll get a better deal if I go directly to the listing agent.”
I hear this constantly. And if it were true, I’d be the first one to tell you. But it isn’t, and here’s why it actually works against you.
The listing agent works for the seller. Full stop.
The listing agent is hired, and legally bound, to represent the seller’s best interests. Florida does allow an agent to work with both sides of a transaction, but that doesn’t erase the conflict of interest sitting right in the middle of it.
Think about it this way: it’s like playing poker with your cards face-up. Like using your spouse’s attorney in a divorce. Like asking the car salesman to negotiate against himself to get you a lower price. The setup just doesn’t work in your favor.
When you work directly with the listing agent, a few things happen that most buyers don’t realize until it’s too late:
Your negotiating strategy isn’t protected. The agent who knows what you’re willing to pay also advises the seller on how to respond. Your concerns about the inspection, the appraisal, the repair requests, the contract terms… none of that is being kept in your corner.
And the idea that the listing agent will “share” the commission with you to make the deal sweeter? It happens sometimes. But there’s no guarantee, and when it does happen, it often benefits the seller’s bottom line more than yours.
What you actually lose without your own agent
A home purchase isn’t just a transaction. It’s one of the most complicated, emotional, and high-stakes decisions most people will ever make. Having someone fully in your corner changes the outcome, not just at the offer stage, but throughout the entire process.
Inspection issues come up. Appraisals don’t always hit the mark. Deadlines get tight. Repairs get negotiated. In every one of those moments, you want someone whose only job is to protect you.
Buyers who work with their own dedicated agent almost always come out ahead, financially and emotionally. Not because their agent has some magic trick, but because having a real advocate in a complicated process simply leads to better decisions.
The bottom line
You deserve someone who is completely, fiercely, and solely on your side. That’s not a sales pitch. That’s just how this process is supposed to work.
If you’re thinking about buying in Palm Beach County and want to understand exactly how I show up for my buyers, let’s talk. No pressure, no jargon, just a real conversation about what the process actually looks like and how to get the best outcome for you.
Send me a message or give me a call. I’d love to be in your corner.
Sophie Daverio
561-809-2216
Realtor®, REAL Broker, LLC
Proactive.Responsive.Expert
MBA.English.French
(my reviews, what my clients have to say: Sophie Daverio Reviews )
Sophie Daverio | Lake Worth, Boynton, Delray Beach, Palm Beach County Real Estate agent 
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