The Dual Agency Dilemma: Should a Buyer Sign a Dual Agency Agreement? 

In the world of real estate transactions, the concept of dual agency is a contentious topic, sparking debates and raising questions about the conflicts of interest and transparency. Dual agency occurs when a single real estate agent or brokerage represents both the buyer and seller in a real estate transaction. While it may seem like a convenient solution, it introduces complexities that can significantly impact the interests and decisions of the buyer.

A Balancing Act?

Buying a home is often one of life's most significant financial decisions. It requires careful consideration, research and trust in the individuals guiding you through the journey. In a dual agency scenario, that trust becomes a balancing act.

Conflicting Allegiances

The heart of the dual agency dilemma lies in conflicting allegiances. A dual agent strives to serve the best interests of both parties: the buyer and the seller. This dynamic raises a fundamental question: Can one person truly advocate for the optimal outcome of both sides?

‍Information Equality

One of the primary concerns for a home buyer in a dual agency arrangement is the issue of information flow. In a traditional buyer-agent relationship, the agent is the advocate, providing critical market insights, property history, and negotiating strategies. In a dual agency scenario, the agent becomes a mediator for the transaction. The agent divulging information that may benefit one party over the other.

The Issue of Transparency 

Transparency is the cornerstone of any healthy real estate transaction. It's the bedrock upon which trust is built. In a dual agency situation, however, transparency is muddled, leaving buyers in a precarious position.

Limited Disclosure

When a single agent is responsible for both sides, the extent to which confidential information is shared is a matter of great concern. For example, if the seller confides their bottom-line price to the agent, should that information be relayed to the buyer? There are many examples of why dual agency doesn’t serve the best interests of a buyer or a seller in a real estate transaction. 

Legal Implications

In some jurisdictions, dual agency is regulated, with laws requiring full disclosure and consent from both parties. But what if a consumer doesn’t fully understand what is at stake? What if the dual agency agreement is presented as something to sign “if you want to buy or sell a property?” Some states and jurisdictions are better than others with regulating dual agency but there is a lack of uniformity throughout the country. Buyers are vulnerable to potential conflicts of interest and insufficient legal protection.

Seek Independent Representation

Opting for separate buyer and seller agents is a smart move. Working with an exclusive buyer agent ensures undivided loyalty and advocacy throughout the process. The benefits in terms of transparency and protection are immeasurable. The members of the National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents see the conflicts of interest that come up in dual and designated agency and they choose one side, the buyers, in every real estate transaction. 

Establish Clear Communication

Buyers should be upfront about their expectations and concerns, and agents should be diligent in answering questions and preparing their buyer for each step of the process. 

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UPDATE:

On October 31, 2023, a Kansas city jury found the National Association of Realtors and other real estate brokerages conspired to inflate commissions from home sales. Jurors awarded 1.8 billion dollars in damages to Missouri home sellers. The National Association of Exclusive Buyer Agents cautions the lawsuits could hurt home buyers who deserve representation in real estate. 

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How can we help?

The exclusive buyer agents at HomeBuyer Brokerage specialize in serving home buyers. Please reach out with questions at info@homebuyerbrokerage.com.