Using MLS “Agent Remarks” to Clear Up Any Confusion
“He who represents himself has a fool for a client.”
–Proverb
At least in Minnesota, listing agents (representing the Seller) have to disclose on MLS if the owner is a licensed Realtor.
So, in the field that asks “Is the Owner an Agent?,” the appropriate answer is “yes.”
Unfortunately, that sometimes gets interpreted as, “the listing agent is the owner.”
Unh-unh (at least usually).
Client = Licensed Agent
To clarify things, it’s common to note in the “Agent Remarks” field** that the listing agent and the owner — also an agent — are in fact separate people.
Why would one licensed agent hire another licensed agent to represent them?
Two reasons: 1) it’s hard to be dispassionate selling your own home; and 2) while licensed, the owner’s expertise is in commercial, not residential real estate.
P.S.: Don’t county tax records list the owner?
Yes, but sometimes the owner is a corporation (“XYZ Properties”), not one or more individuals.
While the Secretary of State’s office lists corporate officers, that’s more digging than most agents (let alone consumers) are up for.
**As the term suggests, “Agent Remarks” are only visible to Realtors; “Public Remarks” are . . . public.
See also, “Making Use of ‘Agent Remarks.‘”
