What is Consent for Dual Agency?

The Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) is the group that makes sure real estate laws are followed in Maryland.  One of the most important rules is something called “agency disclosure.”  This helps everyone understand who the real estate agent represents in a transaction.

In every home sale or rental, there are usually two sides:

• The seller’s or landlord’s agent (the person listing the home)
• The buyer’s or tenant’s agent (the person looking to buy or rent)

Sellers and landlords are always represented because they sign a contract with the real estate company.  That contract is called an Exclusive Right to Sell or Exclusive Right to Lease Agreement.

So, What’s Dual Agency?

Sometimes, a person who sees one of our listings wants to work with us directly without bringing in another agent.  This means our company would be helping both sides in the same deal.  When this happens, it’s called dual agency.

Before we can do that, our seller and landlord clients sign a form called Consent for Dual Agency.  This gives us permission to:

• Show their property to buyers or renters who found it through our marketing of the home
• Help both sides fairly, while still looking out for our client’s best interests

Have Questions?  If dual agency sounds a little confusing, don’t worry.  We’re happy to explain how it works. Just contact us, and we’ll walk you through it step by step.

When a Buyer or Renter Needs to Sign a Dual Agency Form

If you’re thinking about buying or renting a home, you may choose to work with a real estate agent, or not.   It’s totally up to you!  If you do decide to work with one of our agents, you’ll be asked to sign a form called the Exclusive Right to Represent the Buyer/Tenant Agreement.  This makes you our client, and we’ll do our best to help you find the right home.

But here’s something else you should know.  If the home you’re interested in is listed by DMS Properties, LLC, Residential Real Estate Services,  then you might also need to sign the Consent for Dual Agency form.

What Does That Mean?

This form simply explains that we might be helping both the person selling (or renting) the home and the person buying (or renting) it.  This is called dual agency, and it’s allowed under Maryland law—as long as everyone understands and agrees.  It also helps explain what real estate agents can and cannot do in this kind of situation.

Have Questions?  We’re Here to Help!  If you’re unsure about dual agency or how real estate agents represent their clients, please Contact Us.  We’ll be happy to go over everything with you and make sure you feel confident and informed.