The short answer: usually not lawfully, but the risks depend on what “price” means.
The agent may suggest a higher asking price, but the listing price is normally set by the owner. This price is typically set in a written listing agreement that allows the agent to market the property for the seller. Changing it without the seller’s consent may be a breach of the agreement and, depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction, a violation of the agent’s fiduciary duties.
Those duties typically include loyalty, obedience to lawful instructions, disclosure, accounting and an obligation to act in the client’s best interests.
But an agent can affect the apparent price in ways an owner might not notice immediately.
For example, there is a difference between the listing price and the transaction price. A seller’s agent typically can’t accept an offer or change the seller’s instructions without authority. But an agent might recommend the seller raise the asking price after strong buyer interest, multiple offers or new comparable sales. This is advice, not unilateral power.
An agent may also quote a price other than the seller-approved price, enter an incorrect figure in a multiple listing service, or suggest terms that effectively raise the buyer’s cost, such as mandatory fees or an undisclosed commission arrangement. These can lead to legal and ethical issues, especially if they have misrepresented the facts to the potential buyers or violated the listing agreement.
In some markets, agents may be given limited authority to make normal marketing changes. So the answer is contingent upon the contract. Sellers should determine whether the contract permits price changes, who can approve them and whether approval must be in writing. Verbal understandings are harder to prove.
Buyers should also be cautious. A sudden price change is not automatically misconduct: markets move, sellers reconsider and competing offers can alter strategy.
The practical rule is simple: an agent can recommend a higher price, but should not secretly impose one. Before signing, owners should insist that every price change require clear, documented approval and review the final listing and contract personally.