Chat session does not make you and agent an exclusive item

By Robert J. Bruss
Inman News
Date: October 15, 2006

Question: My husband and I visited a real estate office in a town we're thinking of moving to. We talked with an agent, who took my name and phone number and said she would get back to us. I found out she's been there only two years. I would rather deal with a more experienced agent.

Is it possible to change agents within the same brokerage office without having to pay two commissions and creating a mess?

Answer: Speaking with an agent and giving her your name and phone number did not create a buyer's-agent relationship.

Unless you signed a buyer's agency contract with that agent, you are free to work with any licensed agent you wish, including another with the same brokerage firm. As a buyer, you won't be paying any sales commission anyway.