2025 is going to be the Year of the Open Houses - SantaClaritaOpenHouses.com

Santa Clarita Open Houses | First Responder Realtor | Connor with Honor | Representing home buyers and sellers Since 1998

The Rise of “Dual Agency” and Its Pitfalls

“Should I use the agent that’s representing the seller?... That agent already has a vested interest in the transaction.”
—Transcript excerpt

As commission practices shift, more buyers might consider using the listing agent (the seller’s representative) to handle the entire deal. This is called dual agency, and it means the agent is representing both sides in the same transaction. In some states, dual agency is restricted or heavily regulated; in others, it’s allowed but can be tricky.

Why can it be tricky? Because an agent who has fiduciary duties to the seller—like getting them the best price—can’t simultaneously promise to get the best price for the buyer. It creates an inherent conflict of interest. While some agents handle dual agency ethically and responsibly, many real estate professionals discourage buyers from relying on the listing agent to represent them fully.

Here are a few pitfalls of dual agency:

• Limited Advocacy: A dual agent must remain neutral, so the buyer won’t receive the same level of advocacy.
• Possible Confusion: Buyers might misunderstand whose interests are being served.
• Negotiating Power: If one agent is trying to negotiate for both parties, how can they push for the absolute best terms for either side?

By 2025, if more buyers wander into open houses without representation, the temptation to go with the listing agent—who is there, readily available—may rise. But, as we move through that year, we expect many informed buyers will realize that independent representation offers stronger negotiation power and better advocacy. This is one reason why after visiting an open house, a buyer might say, “Thanks, but I’m going to find my own agent.”

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