Beware of Shadow Agents!

In property transactions in Guwahati, you may come across individuals who introduce buyers or sellers, influence negotiations, or facilitate communication. While many professionals operate transparently, others may not clearly disclose their role or their expectation of a commission.

In this article, the term "shadow agent" refers to an individual who acts as a real estate intermediary without clearly disclosing their role or commission arrangements at the outset, yet later expects or demands a commission for their involvement. It is a descriptive term used solely for the purpose of this discussion and is not a legal classification.

Before accepting anyone's assistance in a property transaction, ensure that their role, services, commission, and responsibilities are clearly discussed and agreed upon. A lack of clarity can lead to misunderstandings, disputes, and unnecessary stress.

A professional real estate agent will clearly explain their services and disclose their fee or commission before providing any services. A shadow agent, however, may avoid discussing compensation initially and only demand payment after becoming involved in the transaction. To protect your interests, always clarify the services being offered, the fee structure, and the expectations of both parties before proceeding.

Some shadow agents may avoid quoting a specific commission even when asked, responding instead with phrases such as, "As you wish," or "Pay whatever you think is fair." While this may seem harmless, it can create uncertainty. Once the transaction is completed, they may demand a commission far higher than you reasonably expected. To avoid such situations, always agree on the commission and the terms of engagement before accepting their services.

Over the years, I have come across many buyers and sellers who have faced difficulties because of such shadow agents. In some cases, these individuals demanded payment for the time they claimed to have spent assisting the parties, even though the transaction ultimately did not materialise. Although they may not be formally engaged or clearly identified as real estate agents, they may still pressure or harass people for payment. For your own peace of mind, it is generally advisable to avoid dealing with such individuals.