It appears that every time I express my professional opinion, whether through my personal blog or on public forums, I find myself facing criticism from fellow Realtors. It’s intriguing that my perspective on dual agency seems to be met with confusion and disagreement within the Realtor community. 
The crux of the issue lies in the fact that many Realtors lack a comprehensive understanding of what dual agency truly entails and the repercussions associated with it.
Dual agency is an intricate concept, making it understandable why a significant portion of Realtors might struggle to grasp its intricacies. Regrettably, this lack of comprehension ultimately has negative implications for consumers.
My intention is to clarify what dual agency involves and why I personally choose not to engage in it.
Feeling a bit disoriented?
WHAT IS DUAL AGENCY?
Genuine dual agency arises when a Realtor, initially hired by a seller to market their property, subsequently identifies a buyer interested in purchasing the same property. The buyer expresses a desire for the listing agent to act on their behalf as well. This results in the Realtor handling both sides of the transaction, relinquishing their ability to advocate for either party and transitioning into a mediator role—enter dual agency.
In my professional estimation, dual agency fails to serve anyone’s best interests, not even those of the Realtor. Sellers lose their equitable representation when their listing agent, who initially pledged to secure the highest market price and protect their interests, shifts priorities and decides to advocate for a buyer who naturally desires a lower purchase price.
In the past, buyers were devoid of representation; only sellers benefited from this provision. The playing field was anything but level. Now, equilibrium reigns. Both parties have access to impartial representation.
I perceive no merit in dual agency. From my vantage point, it leads to no positive outcomes, causing harm to at least one of the parties involved. I have no intention of promoting dual agency and will vehemently oppose it when necessary.
WHAT ARE CONSUMER’S RIGHTS?
Consumers are perpetually concerned about their rights. Through this blog, I aim to enlighten them about their rights—primarily their right to individualized Realtor representation. They have the prerogative to retain a Realtor who safeguards their best interests. Importantly, they possess this right, so why not exercise it?
Realtors are bound by an obligation to prioritize their clients’ interests at all times. Engaging in dual agency, however, results in a situation where neither client’s interests can be truly prioritized. The Realtor essentially assumes a neutral stance. But how does this benefit anyone? Imagine a Realtor perched on a fence, relaying messages between a seller and a buyer. The Realtor functions merely as a conduit. Negotiation, a Realtor’s most valuable skill, becomes obsolete. Remove negotiation from the equation, and what remains of the Realtor’s worth? It seems that dual agency may attract Realtors who lack comfort in negotiation.
Bear in mind that when a Realtor enters a dual agency arrangement, they retain the entire commission, leading some to speculate that financial incentive clouds the Realtor’s judgment.
RENEE’S ADVICE
In conclusion, my advice to all buyers and sellers is to prioritize their best interests. Opt for individual Realtor representation and steer clear of dual agency. The most favorable outcomes are realized when each party possesses a dedicated advocate in their corner.
