Before You Call the Number on the For Sale Sign...

It's easy to see a beautiful house and call the listing agent whose face is plastered on the for sale sign. 

But here's why that's the worst idea-of-all-time. 

Realtors only get paid when the listing sells. The listing agent's chief bragging rights is to get the highest possible price for their seller. Lowering the sales price for you is counterproductive. Ask the seller to make repairs? Forget about it.

It's a classic conflict of interest and if you write an offer without your agent, that listing agent will receive the listing side of the commission and the buyer's side of commission. It's a win-win for them and a lose-lose for you.

No matter how convenient it may be to call the first number you see, it's a mistake that could cost you thousands.