🏡 Buyer’s Agent vs. Dual Agency: Who’s Really in Your Corner?
- Kat Moore — The German Realtor®
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
If you thought “listing agent” and “selling agent” were confusing, wait until you hear about dual agency. This is when one brokerage (or sometimes even one agent) represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. Sounds efficient, right? Well… kind of. Let’s break it down—especially how it works here in Maryland.
🤔 What Is Dual Agency?
Dual agency means the same brokerage (and sometimes the same agent) is working with both sides of the deal. One company, two clients, one transaction.
✅ The Potential Upside
Convenience: Communication can feel faster when one office handles everything.
Access: Buyers might hear about homes sooner if they’re already working with the listing brokerage.
Smooth Process: Fewer people involved sometimes means fewer mix-ups.
⚠️ The Downsides
Conflicts of Interest: Whose side is the agent really on? (It’s like one referee coaching both teams.)
Less Advocacy: A dual agent can’t push equally hard for the seller and the buyer—it’s a tightrope act.
Legal Complexities: In many states, including Maryland, there are strict rules to protect clients.
📜 Maryland’s Rules on Dual Agency
Dual agency is legal in Maryland, but only if all parties give informed, written consent.
In Maryland, this setup is usually called “dual agency with designated agents.”
That means the broker is technically the dual agent.
The broker then appoints one agent to represent the seller and another to represent the buyer.
If the same individual agent tried to represent both sides directly, that’s called “dual agency with one agent”—and in Maryland, that can only happen if both clients agree in writing.
At any point, a buyer or seller can refuse dual agency, and the broker must then refer one party to another brokerage.
👩💼 Where I Stand
Dual agency exists, but I always put clarity first. My goal is to make sure you know exactly who I represent. If you’re my client, you can trust I’ll advocate for your best interests—no confusion, no blurred lines.
✨ Bottom line: In Maryland real estate, dual agency is allowed, but it comes with rules. You should always know who’s in your corner—and make sure they’re really there for you.
Kat Moore | Realtor | Advisor
Samson Properties
📞 410-414-5967 (cell), 443-975-7555 (office)
The Kat Walk To Homeownership
Disclaimer
This blog post is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects my perspective as a licensed real estate agent. It does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Laws and regulations can change, and individual circumstances vary. Please consult a licensed tax professional, attorney, or other qualified advisor for advice specific to your situation.
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