Types of Agencies: Agent-Client Relationships

Agents aren’t one-size-fits-all. There are several types of agent-client relationships you can enter into:

• Single Agency
• Dual Agency
• Designated Agency
• Transaction Brokerage

Single Agency
A straightforward agent-client relationship. Your agent represents your interests only and the seller’s agent represents their interests only.

Dual Agency
A single agent represents both the person or company selling the property and you as a buyer. In some states where they don’t differentiate between dual and designated agencies, when a different agent from the same brokerage represents the seller, it’s also considered a dual agency.

Designated Agency
You and the seller are represented by the same brokerage, but the brokerage designates two separate agents to represent each of your best interests.

Transaction Brokerage
Not a true agent relationship. An agent or brokerage offers transactional services to you and to the seller. They don’t represent either of you, so they aren’t legally obligated to provide fiduciary duties. They serve more as a mediator to help the transaction move forward.