🏡 Listing Agent vs. Selling Agent: Why Real Estate Jargon Feels Backwards

If you’ve ever thought real estate jargon was designed to confuse people—you’re not wrong. One of the biggest head-scratchers? The difference between a listing agent and a selling agent. The names sound like they should mean the same thing, but they don’t. Let’s clear it up before you start thinking we agents just spin a wheel to pick our titles. 😅

📋 The Listing Agent

The listing agent is like the house’s PR manager.

• They represent the seller.

• Their job is to get the home on the market with the right price, make it shine with photos and staging, run open houses, take care of all the paperwork, and negotiate offers.

• Think of them as “Team Seller.” Their goal is to get the best price and terms for the homeowner.

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🤝 The Selling Agent (a.k.a. Buyer’s Agent)

Here’s where it gets weird. The selling agent actually represents the buyer.

• They’re the one helping the buyer tour homes, write contracts, and negotiate.

• So why the name “selling agent”? Because once a home sells, they technically “sold” the house to the buyer.

• Translation: the buyer’s agent = the selling agent. Yes, I know…. 🙄

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🧐 Why This Matters to You

• If you’re selling → your agent is the listing agent.

• If you’re buying → your agent is the selling agent (or more commonly, your buyer’s agent).

Confusing? Absolutely. Important? Definitely—because you want to know which side your agent is really on.

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✨ The Bottom Line

The good news: you don’t need to memorize the industry lingo. You just need the right agent in your corner—someone who explains the confusing stuff without making your head spin. That’s where I come in.

Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll make sure the only thing you’re left wondering is why the coffee pot always finishes right after you pour your cup..

Contact Me

Kat Moore | Realtor | Advisor

Samson Properties

📞 410-414-5967 (cell), 443-975-7555 (office)

📧 kat@germanrealtor.com

🌐 www.germanrealtor.com

The Kat Walk To Homeownership

Disclaimer

This blog post is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects my perspective as a licensed real estate agent. It does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Laws and regulations can change, and individual circumstances vary. Please consult a licensed tax professional, attorney, or other qualified advisor for advice specific to your situation.