The Hidden Dangers of Dual Agency in Real Estate

Dual agency occurs when the same real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller in a single transaction. While it might seem convenient, it presents a massive conflict of interest. An agent earns two commissions if they represent both sides, which incentivizes them to close the deal quickly rather than fighting for your highest net proceeds. In most cases of dual agency, the home sells for a lower price than it would have if the agent had been exclusively representing the seller. How can one person aggressively negotiate for the seller to get the highest price, while simultaneously negotiating for the buyer to get the lowest price? They can't. As a law firm and brokerage, we fundamentally believe in exclusive fiduciary duty. We structurally cannot and will not engage in this conflict. When you work with Listing Attorney, you have a dedicated legal and real estate advocate whose sole objective is maximizing your net proceeds.