What duty does a real estate agent owe to their client?

A real estate agent owes their client a fiduciary duty, which includes providing loyalty and confidentiality. This means that the agent must place the best interests of the client above their own and must protect the client's personal and financial information. Loyalty ensures that the agent works to achieve the goals of their client, whether buying or selling a property, and confidentiality obligates the agent to keep sensitive information regarding their client's financial situation, motivations, and strategy private.

This duty is foundational in establishing trust between the agent and the client. When clients feel confident that their agent is acting in their best interests and safeguarding their information, they are more likely to have a successful transaction and maintain a positive working relationship.

On the other hand, being available 24/7, while certainly beneficial for client service, is not a formal duty. This kind of expectation can vary based on the agreement between the agent and the client. Negotiating solely for the buyer does not encompass the full range of responsibilities an agent has towards their client, especially if they are representing the seller. Disclosing the seller's motivations is also not a duty owed to the client, as it may compromise the negotiating position and confidentiality of the seller. Thus, loyalty and confidentiality remain at the heart of the agent-client relationship