Representing both a Buyer and Seller at the same time on the same property is currently legal in many states including Ohio and is known as Dual Agency.  This arrangement with an agent allows that agent to represent two different parties at the same time whose goals and interests may be adverse. This will require the knowledge and consent of all parties.  The agent may not negotiate nor advocate on behalf of either party.

Today's Buyers often want their own Buyer's Agent representing, advocating, and negotiating for them alone and on behalf of a Buyer's sole interests.  An agent working for a Buyer will show Buyers any and all property listed along with properties that may not be currently listed, but still available as For Sale By Owners.  Buyer's Agents are typically paid through cooperative arrangements with Selling Brokers who particpate in Multiple Listing Services.   With this cooperative effort of brokering real estate, it normally will not require a Buyer to pay any additional funds by having their own agent working on their behalf.