Understanding Different Agent Roles

There are a number of different ways to be represented in the buying and selling process. As a consumer it is important for you to know the differences and how they effect the level at which your best interest is represented.

At your frst significant encounter with a real estate salesperson, they are required by law to get your signature on a form that discloses the different agency definitions. This form is not a contract, but rather, is for your own protection.

There are five possible relationships with a real estate salesperson in a given transaction. Here is a summary of the differences:

Seller's Broker - Represents the seller and acts in their best interest.

Subagent - Works with the buyer but is representing the seller's best interest.

Buyer's Broker - Represents the buyer and acts in their best interest.

Dual Agent - Represents the buyer and seller. Limited in their ability to act in either parties' best interest because they cannot advocate for one party to the detriment of the other.

Facilitator - Performs services for a buyer or seller but does not owe fiduciary duties or representation to either.

Click on the following link if you would like to preview the document Agency Relationships in Real Estate Transactions. You will need Adobe Reader to view the document, if you do not have it installed you may download it for free.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions!