Consumer Guide to Agency Relationships

Understanding Your Relationship with a Real Estate Professional

Introduction

When buying or selling real estate, it is important to understand the different types of relationships that may exist between you and a licensed real estate professional.

This guide explains how Sergio Correa, Realtor® (California DRE License #01488485) with West Shores Realty may represent clients in a real estate transaction.

Understanding agency relationships helps ensure transparency, trust, and clear expectations.

Types of Agency Relationships

Seller’s Agent (Listing Agent)

A Seller’s Agent, also called a Listing Agent, represents the interests of the property seller.

The listing agent has fiduciary duties to the seller, including:

Loyalty to the seller
Full disclosure
Confidentiality
Obedience to lawful instructions
Reasonable care and diligence
Accounting for funds

The agent’s primary responsibility is to help the seller obtain the best possible terms and price for the property.

Buyer’s Agent

A Buyer’s Agent represents the interests of the buyer in a real estate transaction.

Responsibilities include:

Helping locate suitable properties
Negotiating the best price and terms
Providing guidance throughout the purchase process
Protecting the buyer’s confidential information

The buyer’s agent must act in the best interest of the buyer.

Dual Agent

A Dual Agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction.

When acting as a dual agent:

The agent must remain neutral
Confidential information of either party cannot be disclosed
Both parties must provide written consent

Dual agency is allowed under California real estate law but requires full disclosure.

Fiduciary Duties of a Real Estate Agent

Licensed real estate professionals owe certain duties to their clients, including:

✔ Loyalty
✔ Honesty and fair dealing
✔ Full disclosure of material facts
✔ Confidentiality
✔ Reasonable care and skill
✔ Proper accounting of funds

These duties help ensure the client’s interests are properly represented.

Working With Sergio Correa

When working with Sergio Correa, you can expect:

✔ Honest and transparent communication
✔ Professional real estate guidance
✔ Ethical representation
✔ Commitment to your best interests
✔ Respect for confidentiality

My goal is to provide professional service with honesty and kindness while helping clients achieve their real estate goals.

When Agency Relationships Begin

An agency relationship typically begins when:

A listing agreement is signed with a seller
A buyer representation agreement is signed with a buyer
A written real estate contract establishes representation

Simply visiting this website or contacting Sergio Correa does not automatically establish an agency relationship.

California Real Estate Disclosure

California law requires that real estate professionals disclose agency relationships during certain real estate transactions.

This guide is intended to help consumers understand those relationships before entering into a formal agreement.

Contact Information

For questions regarding agency relationships or real estate services:

Sergio Correa, Realtor®
DRE License #01488485
West Shores Realty

Phone: 424-347-0229
Website: www.sergiocorreag.com

CONSUMER GUIDE AGENCY RELATIONSHIPS