What is meant by "dual agency"?

Dual agency refers to a situation in which a real estate agent or broker represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction. This arrangement can be complex, as the agent must navigate the interests of both principals—ensuring that neither party’s interests are compromised.

In a dual agency scenario, the agent holds a fiduciary duty to both parties, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness. Given the conflicting interests that may arise when representing both sides, it’s essential for the agent to disclose this dual representation to both the buyer and the seller and often requires their consent to proceed.

This concept is particularly significant in real estate transactions, where trust and communication between the agent and the clients are crucial to a successful deal. Selecting this option highlights an understanding of how agency relationships can simultaneously serve multiple parties within the same transaction.