[fintstone]

I have done it both ways...but it depends on the state/area...because using the seller's agent is considered unethical in some places. They do represent the seller...so you are negotiating on your own. I recently purchased a home where I used another agent in the same agency, with the hope that they would both work toward a sale and might be willing to negotiate each of their respective commissions down if necessary to get a quick/solid sale without much pain (a win/win for both to make sure there was a sale). Of course, I knew exactly what I could/would pay...so their representation was really moot. All I needed was for them to present my offer and do the paperwork. It went quickly and quite well. I got my price because I recognized the seller's position and the market (and house) well...and was willing to accept what was wrong with the home (needed a roof and new flooring throughout). Since it was a great house/location, I was also willing to make a solid offer (I knew the deal they accepted before that fell through). The realtor provided any information I requested, but knew they were not selling me another house....so it well behooved them for me to buy it. I live on the other side of the country and the seller had long moved away and a previous offer had fallen through...so they were fairly eager...and I was ready to close quickly without contingencies. It was easy money for both agents...and buyer and seller came out quite well.