Absolutely, however buyers should be aware of the differences inherent in working with sales licensee's who are employed by the developer, rather than traditional real estate Licensees or REALTORS®.
Builders commonly require that if an outside licensee is to be used, they must be present the first time a prospective purchaser visits a site before payment of commission will even be discussed. At times, when buyers find the development through a developer's advertisement first without the help of a licensee, builders can refuse to pay any commission regardless of how helpful a licensee may become later in the process.
It is advisable to call the development first and inquire about their policy on compensating REALTORS® if you are using one. Be wary of those who say they won't. It may mean their ethics aren't up to standards that a REALTOR will bring to the transaction.
Real estate licensee's would say that the more you tell them, the better they can negotiate on your behalf. However, the degree of trust you have with an agent may depend upon their legal obligation. Licensee's working for buyers have three possible choices: They can represent the buyer (may assist the seller), or represent the seller (may assist the buyer), or assist both the buyer and seller as a Neutral Licensee, or assist the buyer without representation. Some states require agents to disclose all possible agency relationships before they enter into a residential real estate transaction. Here is a summary of the three basic types:
*Specific Assistance - The licensee does not represent you. Rather the licensee is simply responding to your request for information. And, the licensee may "represent" another party in this transaction while providing you with specific assistance.
* Representing the Seller/Lessor only (may provide specific assistance to Buyer/Lessee)
* Representing the Buyer/Lessor only (may provide specific assistance to Seller/Lessor)
* Neutral Licensee (must attach waiver of Right to be Represented)
