In virtually every state, the dual agency relationship must have the consent of both the buyer and seller and it must be disclosed in writing. The broker theoretically owes both the seller and buyer a duty to deal with them fairly and honestly. Stiffer disclosures sought Ten years ago, studies showed most consumers believed the agent who drove them around house shopping was working for them. That prompted today's disclosure laws, but Berard and others say the laws don't go far enough. But I don't want to put it all on the real estate industry.
Some consumers have their own problems.
There is a reluctance among consumers to any type of commitment and they prefer to be free agents. Not only should the agent be committed to representing the buyer, the buyer needs to be committed to the agent. Broderick Perkins has been a consumer journalist for 23 years. Experienced in daily print, electronic, and consulting journalism, he is executive editor of San Jose, CA-based, DeadlineNews. Com , an editorial content and consulting firm.