What is one of the most fundamental fiduciary duties that underpins all other duties?

Loyalty is indeed a fundamental fiduciary duty that serves as the cornerstone for the other fiduciary responsibilities in a real estate context. This duty requires the agent to prioritize the best interests of their client above all else. By placing the client’s interests first, loyalty establishes a relationship of trust between the agent and the client, reinforcing other duties such as disclosure, confidentiality, and obedience.

When an agent acts with loyalty, they avoid conflicts of interest and do not engage in any actions that could undermine their client's position in a transaction. This principle is vital for maintaining the integrity of the agent-client relationship and ensuring that the client's needs and goals are adequately represented and met throughout the process. By grounding all interactions in loyalty, an agent builds a solid foundation for fulfilling their additional obligations, ensuring ethical and responsible conduct within their professional practice.