What should a listing agent do when receiving an offer for $120,000 on a house listed at $180,000 when closing costs will be $4,560?

When a listing agent receives an offer, regardless of the offer amount, the professional obligation is to present that offer to the seller. This principle is rooted in the duty of the agent to act in the best interests of the client and maintain transparency in the transaction process. Presenting every offer, even those that may appear low compared to the listing price, allows the seller to make an informed decision about their options.

In this scenario, presenting the $120,000 offer enables the seller to evaluate the proposal, consider the potential for negotiation, and reflect on their financial needs and market conditions. The agent's role is to facilitate communication between the buyer and seller, ensuring that all offers are discussed and weighed appropriately.

It's important to note that refusing to present an offer due to its perceived low value could hinder the seller's ability to understand the market or take advantage of a negotiation opportunity. Additionally, advising buyers to pay the closing costs is not appropriate in this context because the agent's duty lies with the seller, and the terms of the offer should be evaluated based on what is most beneficial to the seller. Presenting the offer along with a recommendation to reject it could limit the seller's understanding of their options without fully engaging with the potential for negotiation or counter-off