Under a typical listing agreement, how is the seller viewed in the transaction?

In a typical listing agreement, the seller is viewed as a client. This designation signifies that the seller engages the real estate professional to represent their interests in the real estate transaction. This relationship is founded on the expectation of loyalty and the obligation of the agent to act in the best interests of the seller.

Within this framework, the real estate professional owes the seller various fiduciary duties, including confidentiality, full disclosure, loyalty, and accountability. These duties are indicative of a principal-agent relationship where the seller, as the client, has entrusted the agent with tasks such as marketing the property, negotiating offers, and providing advice throughout the selling process.

The distinction is important, as it clarifies the responsibilities both parties hold during the transaction. While the agent carries out the functions of representing the seller, the seller remains the client, retaining ultimate control over the decision-making process regarding their property.