I think the book was attempting to explain that the RE agent works for the seller ultimately. It is rare that the buyer would establish a special arrangement to have the agent work directly for them.

I also agree with you about the agent section. To tell the truth, I am always trying to get a lower price for my clients and try to keep them in check with reality. So often I try and push them to buy a home they can afford by lowering their standards a little or trying to negotiate for extra money off the deal for them. Being house poor because of a mortgage that is more than one can afford is not a fun position to be in – I've been there, done that and have the shirt to prove it.

Fortunately, I'm busy enough not to care what price they buy the house for. It's more important to me that people get a house within their budget. They may not thank me at the time, but they certainly do thank me once they go from being a renter to paying principle, interest, insurance and household maintenance fees that almost equal double what they were paying in rent prior to owning their own home.

Also, their parents love it when I actually agree with their advice of not paying too much for your first home. The first page of the book probably should be: LISTEN TO YOUR FOLKS. Believe it or not, they've been there and done it before you.

Okay, I'm rambling now Jay. Sorry, but this is a very good subject that I can go on and on about.