estate agents - conflict of interest?

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If an estate agent is representing both the vendor and the buyer (because he is also selling their house) is there any potential for a conflict of interest?

It happens a lot makes keep the chain tight easier and gives an incentive to do a good job.

Thanks - Yes, I can see the advantages. I was wonderring if there were any potential problems with the arrangement.

Well, there's no real way of preventing it, is there? If your house is for sale and you see your dream home also for sale through the same agent, how would you get to view it if not through them? And imagine if they turned down viewings on your house because the potential buyers also had their home for sale through the same agent? I imagine, if anything, it ensures that the agent works hard on the sales as they are in line for two lots of commission at the end of the day.