Sequim real estate and dual agency. More and more consumers are becoming aware of the potential and obvious conflict of interest when a Realtor represents both the seller and the buyer in the same transaction. Is it legal? Yes. Can it be done? Yes. Is it a good idea in most cases? No.
A recent lawsuit over the inherent conflict in dual agency was filed in Massachusetts by Josef Blumenfeld against his agent and the broker.
“The lawsuit contends that Mrs. Fabrizio violated the letter and spirit of the Dual Agency Agreement,” explained Mr. Blumenfeld. “Both the buyer and the seller of the house we bought in Natick were represented by Hunneman brokers. Under Massachusetts law G.L. Ch. 93A, Hunneman is obligated to treat both parties equally, not advancing the cause of one client to the detriment of the other. It is my contention that Mrs. Fabrizio saw the seller of the house that my wife and I wanted to purchase as a more valuable long-term client, and did all she could to ingratiate herself to him, forcing us to bear additional economic harm and expense.”
Enough said today on this subject. Buying a home in Sequim or Port Angeles? I would love to represent you as your exclusive buyer’s agent. Twenty years as a real estate lawyer and now a broker, I will bring what you need to the table to negotiate the best price and terms. Email me or call me at 360-775-5424. I’m Sequim Buyer’s Agent Chuck Marunde.
Last Updated on March 18, 2010 by Chuck Marunde
