Things A Buyer Should Know About Agency

What Kind Of Relationship Is This

According to Statutory Law of the State of Alabama, A real estate broker is a fiduciary and holds a position of trust and confidence. He cannot put himself in a position antagonistic to his principal’s interest, by fraudulent conduct, acting adversely to his client’s interests, or by failing to communicate information he may possess or acquire which is or may be material to his employer’s advantage, or otherwise.

The most significant word in this statement is “employer.” This is what so many agents don’t seem to understand. It’s so important I constantly hold CE classes teaching Agency. Agency is all about relationships and responsibilities. Agency has multiple connotations but let’s focus on relationships.

Before there can be a relationship between the broker and consumer, an Agency must be established. This requires signed documentation by the broker, or, an authorized representative for the broker, and the consumer. I like to think of an Agency Agreement as an employment contract. This agreement sets the parameters for the relationship during the life of the contract. Alabama License Law, Rule 790-X-3-.13 offers a complete explanation of this process.

Unfortunately in the daily activities of the real estate world, I witness more than not, agents performing certain duties without legal authorization to representation. This act of negligence is created from fear of rejection; that is fear of asking the consumer to be employed when they might be turn down. Quite the contrary, if the consumer is explained the benefits of representation, and laws are thoroughly disclosed, the consumer will welcome, no, they will demand to be represented.

In all my Agency classes, I try to impress on students the importance of having an honest discussion right up front to build a base for a relationship. We forget that the consumer is not as knowledgeable of the law as we are, so it is our duty to inform them. It may have been years since they last bought or sold property so take time to thoroughly explain the process, and explain that as their representative, you are to assist them by providing them the necessary information they need to make a quality financial decision while listing or selling. Let them know that an Agency Agreement is necessary for you to share confidential information about the property with them. Consumers interested in buying or selling real estate have legal rights they may not be aware of. It is our duty to explain these rights to them.

So the next time you first meet someone that’s interested in buying or selling, forget trying to list the property, or forget trying to get a buyer’s agency agreement signed. Focus on having a quality conversation and establish a solid relationship and the Agency will happen automatically.  When you focus on the most important issues, positive results will automatically follow.

Should you have specific questions concerning various issues, please let me know and I’ll research the answer for you. I want to encourage you to subscribe to our “News & Updates” weekly report so you can stay abreast of issues that might affect you when buying or selling real estate. Please feel free to visit Alabama Real Estate Institute website for other helpful information.