If you are browsing homes on Zillow or driving through a Redlands neighborhood and see a "For Sale" sign, your first instinct might be to call the name on that sign. Many buyers think that by going directly to the listing agent, they can cut out the "middleman" and get a better deal.

But is that actually true? In the real estate world, this is called "double-ending" a deal, and it rarely works out the way the buyer hopes.

The Problem of "Fiduciary Duty"

The most important thing to understand is fiduciary duty. This is a legal term that means an agent is required by law to put their client's interests above everyone else's.

  • The Listing Agent's Priority: Their contract is with the seller. Their job is to get the seller the highest price and the best terms.

  • The Conflict: If you call the listing agent directly, they are now representing both sides. It is very difficult to negotiate the "lowest price" for a buyer while simultaneously trying to get the "highest price" for a seller.

Imagine going to court and using your opponent's lawyer. It sounds risky because it is.

You Won't Get the "Deal" You Think You Are

Many buyers assume the seller will just "give them the commission" if there is only one agent involved. However, the commission is usually a pre-set contract between the seller and their agent. If a buyer shows up without representation, that commission often stays with the listing agent, not the buyer's pocket.

More importantly, you lose your "negotiation shield." Without a dedicated buyer's agent, you are on your own when it comes to inspections, repairs, and appraisals.

The Power of Having Patrick Edgett in Your Corner

When buyers choose to have their own representation, the results speak for themselves. Patrick Edgett uses data and aggressive negotiation strategies to save his clients far more than any "direct deal" ever could.

Here are two real-world examples from Patrick's recent transactions:

  1. The $100,000 Negotiation: In Irvine last year, Patrick Edgett represented a buyer on a luxury property. While the listing agent was focused on the seller's high expectations, Patrick used market data to negotiate $100,000 off the list price.

  2. The $14,000 Buy-Down: For a first-time buyer, Patrick secured $14,000 in seller-paid closing costs. He used that money to fund a "2-1 interest rate buy-down," which significantly lowered the buyer's monthly mortgage payment for the first two years.

In both cases, these buyers would likely have paid full price—or missed out on these credits—if they had gone directly to the listing agent.

What the Reviews Say

Patrick Edgett's clients often mention his "pre-emptive" communication style. Instead of waiting for problems to happen, he identifies them early. Whether it's a tricky inspection report or a low appraisal, Patrick is the "buffer" that keeps the transaction on track.

As a "girl dad" and a local resident who enjoys the Redlands lifestyle, Patrick knows that buying a home is a personal journey. He treats every client's money like it's his own, ensuring they never leave cash on the table.

The Bottom Line

The listing agent is there to protect the seller. You deserve someone whose only job is to protect you.

Thinking about a home you saw online?

Don't call the sign—call Patrick Edgett. Let him show you the data and the negotiation strategies that can save you thousands.