What is the primary duty of an agent during a real estate transaction?

The primary duty of an agent during a real estate transaction is to protect the client's interests. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, such as providing expert advice, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring all legal and ethical guidelines are followed. The agent serves as a fiduciary, meaning they are bound to act in the best interest of their client, whether the client is a buyer or a seller. This duty includes being transparent about any factors that may affect the transaction and advocating vigorously for the client's needs and preferences throughout the process.

While representing the seller may be one aspect of an agent's role, it does not encompass the full scope of safeguarding clients' interests. Similarly, ensuring the client follows the market is relevant, but it does not directly link to the overarching responsibility of the agent. Lastly, the goal of selling the property quickly is often desirable; however, this should never come at the expense of the client’s best interests, such as achieving the best price or terms. Thus, the agent's primary duty remains centered on protecting and promoting their client’s interests above all else.