What is Dual Agency? Great question—and one that many buyers and sellers ask!
When a REALTOR® is involved in dual agency, it means they are representing both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. While this may sound like a conflict of interest at first, dual agency is legal in Ohio (and many other states) as long as both parties are fully informed and give written consent.
Here’s how a REALTOR® can still provide fair, ethical, and professional service to both parties in a dual agency situation:
🏡 What Dual Agency Does and Doesn’t Mean
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✅ The agent must remain neutral and treat both parties honestly and fairly.
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✅ The agent can help facilitate the transaction, share property information, explain documents, and guide the process.
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❌ The agent cannot advocate for one side over the other.
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❌ The agent cannot disclose confidential information (like your bottom line or motivation) to the other party without your permission.
⚖️ Fair Treatment in Practice
Here’s what fair treatment looks like from a REALTOR® in dual agency:
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Equal Access to Information: Both buyer and seller receive the same factual information about the property and market.
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No Preferential Treatment: The agent cannot give one party a negotiation edge or share the other’s strategy.
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Clear Communication: All paperwork and offers are communicated promptly and accurately to both sides.
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Honest Answers to Questions: While the agent can’t offer advice that favors one side, they can still explain terms, processes, and timelines.
💡 How Dual Agency Is Disclosed
In Ohio, dual agency must be disclosed in writing using the State of Ohio’s Agency Disclosure Statement. This ensures:
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Everyone knows what kind of representation they’re receiving
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There are no surprises during the process
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Both parties are given the opportunity to ask questions or seek outside representation if they choose
👥 Is Dual Agency Right for You?
It depends! Some buyers and sellers are perfectly comfortable working with a single, neutral REALTOR®, especially in smaller communities where one agent may have strong knowledge of both the home and the market. Others may prefer to have separate agents for more personalized representation.
Either way, transparency and communication are key—and at Royer Realty, we’re committed to both.
🤝 Have Questions About Dual Agency?
We’re happy to walk you through the pros and cons based on your situation—and always make sure you understand your rights.
📞 Call us today at (937) 592-7653
🌐 Or visit www.royerrealty.com
Whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both—we’ll guide you with honesty, experience, and care every step of the way.