Seller's agents, as the name suggests, are hired by home sellers to represent them in Minnesota real estate transactions. They are paid a fixed fee or a commission and are primarily concerned with bringing the seller and a buyer to a deal. Homebuyers often end up transacting with seller's agents. As a homebuyer, it is important for you to understand the duties of a seller's agent.

Different states have varying regulations on the practice of seller's agents, but they have common responsibilities and restrictions as defined by national laws. According to Ilyce Glink, author of the book '100 Questions Every Home Buyer Should Ask', homebuyers should thoroughly review the agent disclosure form before signing under the services of an agent to understand the scope and limitations of the agent's work. Generally, a seller's agents' responsibilities and restrictions include:

The seller's agent can provide you with detailed pricing lists of comparable homes in the area. These are often called 'comps' and are a compilation of similar homes in the neighborhood, listing information and their list prices. This information ensures that you are not offering, or being offered, an unreasonable price when it's time to negotiate.

A homebuyer cannot be dictated by a seller's agent regarding which homes to buy. If a seller's agent is representing two sellers, then they cannot compel the homebuyer to choose one house over the other. Remember that as a home buyer, the final decision of which home to purchase rests upon you.

A seller's agent cannot reveal the flaws of the home, except for imperceptible material imperfections. They are not allowed to disclose information that can influence you not to buy a property. Homebuyers must conduct their own inspection to assess the condition of a home.

The seller's agent cannot make suggestions on the best offer for the home. It may be tempting to ask the seller what price you should pay for the property, but they cannot legally offer this information at any time during your communications. The seller broker has certain obligations to the seller, so this information may impede on that relationship.

The seller's agent can ask you for referrals. Many seller's agents are independent business owners and always looking for new clients. They do have the right to ask you to refer them to friends or family members, and will do everything they can to make your home buying experience a good one.

The job of a seller's agent is to make the buying and selling process as smooth as possible. As a buyer, you have to remember that seller's agents are working for the seller. Therefore, it is still important for you to do your own research and work with a professional buyer's agent.

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