What is the agency arrangement called where one agent represents one party in a real estate transaction?

The agency arrangement referred to as single agency occurs when one agent represents only one party in a real estate transaction, either the buyer or the seller. This structure establishes a fiduciary relationship between the agent and their client, ensuring that the agent's loyalty, duty of care, and confidentiality are focused exclusively on the interests of the party they represent. In a single agency relationship, the agent works to advocate for the client's best interests, provide guidance, and handle negotiations.

In contrast, dual agency involves a situation where a single agent represents both the buyer and the seller in a transaction, creating potential conflicts of interest. Designated agency allows different agents within the same brokerage to represent the buyer and seller separately while the brokerage itself is still involved as a dual agent. Independent agency generally refers to agents who operate independently without being affiliated with a larger brokerage entity but does not specifically define the relationship or representation in a transaction.

Thus, single agency distinctly emphasizes the dedicated representation of one party, establishing a clear and focused relationship that benefits the client being served by the agent.