Published November 7, 2025

The Listing Agent Wants to Represent You As A Buyer —Here's Why You Should Think Twice

Written by Jim Taylor

The Listing Agent Wants to Represent You As A Buyer —Here's Why You Should Think Twice header image.

Should You Work Directly with the Listing Agent When Buying a Home in Arizona?

It’s a question a lot of Arizona homebuyers ask:
“Can I just work with the listing agent to buy the house?”

On the surface, it sounds like a smart move — fewer people involved, faster communication, maybe even a better deal. But before you make that call, it’s worth taking time to understand both the pros and cons of going that route.

Let’s Start with the Basics

The listing agent is the one who represents the seller, not the buyer. Their main job is to get the seller the best price and terms possible. In Arizona, one agent can represent both sides in what’s called dual agency, but that setup comes with some limits — especially when it comes to how much they can advocate for you as the buyer.

The Pros

Faster Communication

With one agent handling both sides, messages don’t get lost between two people. Everything tends to move a little quicker, which can be a big deal in a hot market.

Smoother Process

The listing agent already knows what the seller wants, so the process can sometimes feel more direct and efficient.

Possible Savings

In some cases, the agent might lower their overall commission since they’re doing both sides of the deal. That could mean a bit of financial benefit — but it’s not something you should count on.

The Cons

No True Representation for You

Here’s the catch — the listing agent’s loyalty is with the seller. Even in dual agency, they can’t give you the same kind of advice or negotiation power that your own buyer’s agent can. You’re basically navigating one of the biggest purchases of your life without a personal advocate.

Conflict of Interest

If one agent is representing both sides, they have to stay neutral. That means they can’t tell you if the seller might accept less, or tell the seller what your max offer is. It limits the negotiation strategy on both ends.

You Might Miss Out on Other Homes
A listing agent’s job is to sell their listing — not to help you explore every home available in your price range. Having your own buyer’s agent opens up the entire market to you, not just one house.

When It Might Work

Working directly with the listing agent could make sense if:

You’ve bought and sold real estate before.
You know exactly which home you want.
You’re comfortable handling negotiations and paperwork yourself.

When You’re Better Off with Your Own Agent

If you’re a first-time buyer, new to the process, or just want someone looking out for you — having a buyer’s agent is the smarter move. The best part? In Arizona, you typically don’t pay anything extra for that representation. The seller covers some or all of the agent's compensation in most cases.

The Bottom Line

Working with the listing agent might sound convenient, but convenience doesn’t always mean protection. When it comes to buying a home, having someone in your corner — fully focused on your goals — can make all the difference.