Who does a Real estate agent represent?

either the buyer or seller of a property

There are several types of representation that a real estate agent may be hired to perform. The agent can be retained in a single agency representation to represent the seller or as a buyer-agent representing the buyer. Single agency results in a fiduciary relationship to either the buyer or seller, but not both. Dual agency is where the real estate agent owes a fiduciary relationship to both parties and is not permitted in many states.

A real estate agent can also be retained to provide what is called transaction brokerage whereby they do not represent either the buyer or the seller but instead performs services to facilitate the transaction and would be bound to treat both parties fairly but does not owe a fiduciary relationship to either.

When retaining the services of a real estate agent inquire as to the nature of their representation and who they in fact represent. Keep in mind that as their representation of a particular party to the transaction evolves, the representation obligations and fiduciary duties may change. It is obligation of the real estate agent to disclose in establishing a relationship and also if and when it changes during the transaction.