What Is the Difference Between a Buyer’s Agent and a Listing Agent in NH?

🏡 Buyer’s Agent vs. Listing Agent in New Hampshire — What’s the Difference?

If you’re buying or selling a home in Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Rumney, Ashland, or anywhere in Central NH, you’ll interact with two main types of real estate professionals:

✔ Buyer’s Agent

✔ Listing Agent

They sound similar — but their roles are very different.

Here’s exactly what each one does and how they protect you in a New Hampshire real estate transaction.

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What Is a Buyer’s Agent?

A buyer’s agent represents the buyer only. Their job is to protect the buyer’s interests from the first showing to the closing table.

A buyer’s agent helps with:

✔ Scheduling showings

✔ Researching comparable home values

✔ Writing and submitting offers

✔ Negotiating price and terms

✔ Helping with inspections

✔ Coordinating with lenders and attorneys

✔ Protecting your contractual rights

✔ Ensuring deadlines are met

A good buyer’s agent is your advocate every step of the way.

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What Is a Listing Agent?

A listing agent represents the seller only. Their loyalty, marketing strategy, and negotiation efforts are focused on getting the seller the best possible outcome.

A listing agent helps with:

✔ Pricing the home using comps

✔ Professional photos and marketing

✔ Listing the home on MLS

✔ Hosting showings and open houses

✔ Negotiating with buyers

✔ Managing deadlines and paperwork

✔ Guiding the seller through closing

Listing agents work to maximize the seller’s results.

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Can One Agent Represent Both Sides in NH?

Yes — New Hampshire allows:

➡️ Dual Agency (one agent acts for both buyer and seller)

➡️ Disclosed Dual Agency (only with written consent from BOTH parties)

However, in dual agency:

⚠️ The agent cannot give undivided loyalty

⚠️ The agent cannot advise one side over the other

Most buyers and sellers prefer separate representation for maximum protection.

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Which Agent Gets Paid?

In NH, commissions are typically paid by the seller, and the total commission is split between:

✔ The buyer’s brokerage

✔ The listing brokerage

Buyers usually pay nothing out of pocket for their agent.

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Q&A

Q: Do I need a buyer’s agent to see homes?

A: Yes — most listing agents require buyers to have their own agent before scheduling showings.

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Keywords

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Jim Johnson Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com