Information for Buyers
Getting the Best Service
Agency Relationship is Your Choice
A Buyer who desires the assistance of a REALTOR® should be aware of the potential agency relationships in the purchase and the sale of real estate. These are: Buyer Agency, Subagency, and the Dual Agency which are explained below.
Under the Buyer Agency method, a REALTOR® enters into a written agreement to represent a Buyer in the purchase of real estate. As the "Buyer's Agent," a REALTOR® is able to fully represent a Buyer and may provide substantial advice and assistance to the Buyer far beyond that which a "Subagent" can provide. With Buyer Agency, there is no confusion about who represents the Buyer; your Agent has a fiduciary relationship with you and must act in your best interest.
In Seller/Subagency, both REALTORS® involved represent the Seller. The REALTOR® working with a potential Buyer is a "Subagent." The REALTOR® has a fiduciary or trust relationship with the Seller. A "Subagent" working with a potential Buyer customer is not working for the Buyer, but rather is working with the Buyer to assist the Buyer in finding a property to buy.
Dual Agency is a relationship in which the REALTOR® acts as the agent for both the Seller and the Buyer in the same transaction with the written consent of all parties. Duties of the REALTOR® include confidentiality to both parties and taking no action that is adverse or detrimental to either party.