What is the difference between a buying agent and a selling agent?

The importance of professional assistance

Buying or selling a property is an important decision. It’s one of the largest financial transactions in a human life. There are also the necessary legal issues and pitfalls that can have big consequences.
That’s why it’s adviseable and wise to seek professional assistance while selling or buying a property.

In the Netherlands, the agent may only assist one party. The agent will then work to achieve the best conditions for that party and ensure that things are in order legally and in writing. The realtor will be paid by the cliënt for that service (often performance oriënted).

Buying agent

As a buyer, a buying agent can make all the difference. This agent will serve only your interests in the search for a suitable property. Aside from primary access to the (new and) current property listings, you will be assisted during viewings, research on the condition of the property, legal matters and any price negotiations. This professional knows what he’s doing and is your representative in dealing with the selling agent.

Selling agent

This agent has just one goal and that is to sell his or her cliënts property with the most favourable conditions for the seller. That means the highest price, the best secondary conditions and the most solid buyer. In a pretty hectic property market, there are usually multiple prospective buyers and a selling agent is usually in the lead. Being a private (usually inexperienced) seller, it’s usually not a good idea to handle these things yourself.

Professional vs. Professional

Agents enjoy working together because, more often that not, this leads to a professional negotiation, no unpleasant surprises and a smooth transition. For both seller and buyer, professional representation is really a must. Our agents can serve your interests to come to the best results.

Are you looking for more information? Contact us directly.

 

More from our blog:

18 November, 2025

Temporarily letting a property meant for your studying child, this is how it works afer July 1st 2024 

When Will and Lilian heard their daughter Sophie was accepted at Leiden University, they couldn’t wait to celebrate! Soon after, the ...
Read more
02 October, 2025

Temporary letting through the Vacancy Act: how to avoid vacancy and high costs

Jack always loved living in his ‘tiny house’. But when he fell back in love with his childhood-sweetheart after 40 years, it turned out that she ...
Read more