Buying a Home in Palm Harbor: Can the Listing Agent Represent You Too?

You find a dreamy home, fall in love, and the agent showing it knows everything about it, because they’re also the one who listed it. So you wonder: Can this agent represent me too?

Short answer? Yes.
Longer, more nuanced answer? Yes, but let’s unpack that.

What Is Dual Agency?

In real estate, dual agency is when one agent represents both the seller and the buyer in the same transaction. Sounds efficient, right? Like fewer cooks in the kitchen?

Well… not so fast.

The Problem with Wearing Two Hats

Typically, a listing agent owes something called a fiduciary duty to their seller. That means they’re legally and ethically bound to act in their client’s best interest—getting top dollar, negotiating strong terms, and protecting confidential info.

But when dual agency enters the chat, that full-on advocacy gets watered down. The agent has to stay neutral. No coaching either side, no pushing for one person’s win. Everyone plays it straight down the middle.

Some states, like Florida and Texas, don’t even allow true dual agency because it’s just too murky. Instead, agents might act as transaction brokers (facilitators, not advocates).

Have Questions?

Let’s talk strategy, loyalty, and how to get the best outcome for you. Schedule your strategy call today.