Change of estate agent

Catatonia

There's a house I'm interested in, which I put in a series of offers on a few weeks ago (all refused). I told the EA that I wouldn't raise my offer, and for them to contact me if there were any developments. They called two weeks later, to say that the seller had potentially found somewhere and might want to re-open negotiations, but I then heard nothing further so I assume the sellers decided against going for the house they had in mind.

A couple of weeks ago the sellers changed EAs.

1) Should I call the EAs and explain the situation, ie that I'm interested but only at the right price? If so, should I do this now or wait until after Christmas?

2) What happens with commission? I initially viewed and negotiated through EA 1, but I assume that the only way of getting this house would be through further negotiations with EA 2 (especially as I'd probably want to view again if I was going to increase my offer). I don't want the seller to be put off selling to me as they will then be liable for two lots of commission (and they will know who I am as I met them as they insisted on being there for both viewings, for some reason).

G_M

Yup, EA1 introduced you so would be due a commission.

Go direct to vendor or back to EA1

Catatonia

Can EA1 still negotiate even though it's not on with them anymore?
And what happens if I view again with EA2, will the seller have to pay 2x commission?

G_M

Catatonia wrote: »

Can EA1 still negotiate even though it's not on with them anymore?
And what happens if I view again with EA2, will the seller have to pay 2x commission?

1) Maybe. Ask and you'll find out!
2) Probobly. If you go to EA2 be upfront and explain the situation.

It's not really your problem. It's a matter for the vendor/EAs to sort out.

googler

You're not paying them, so it shouldn't matter.

As said, up to the vendor and the two EAs to thrash out.

sonastin

Alternatively, contact the vendor directly and tell them that you are still interested. Ask them how they would like you to proceed. Are you considering increasing your offer or just wanting to let them know that your original offer still stands if they revise their expectations?

Catatonia

I know it's not directly my problem, but I am worried that 2x commission will put the seller off me as a buyer.

I'm not sure, sonastin. Probably the latter. I could maybe go up a tiny bit more, but am hoping that the lack of interest from others will scale down their expectations.

sonastin

Catatonia wrote: »

I could maybe go up a tiny bit more, but am hoping that the lack of interest from others will scale down their expectations.

In that case, I'd put a note through their door saying that you are still interested but you're not in a position to increase your offer. You don't want to put them in a position where both EAs claim an introduction so you're not going to speak to the new EA but if their position changes and they'd consider your offer, they can contact you on [contact details] or via the old EA.

When they realise they can't get any more for it, they'll be in a position to do something about selling to you, rather than just kicking themselves for letting you get away!