Can a Real Estate Agent Represent Both the Buyer and Seller?

Curious about dual agency in real estate? The Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team explains how it works and what it means for buyers and sellers in Southwest Michigan.

Can One Agent Represent Both the Buyer and Seller?

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Southwest Michigan, you might be wondering: Can the same real estate agent represent both the buyer and the seller in a transaction?

The answer is yes—this is called dual agency—but there are important details you should understand before moving forward with this kind of representation.

At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, we believe in transparency and making sure our clients fully understand every step of the process. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Dual Agency?

Dual agency occurs when one real estate agent (or brokerage) represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction. This situation can come up when:

• A buyer contacts the listing agent directly to view a home

• A seller's agent has a buyer interested in their own listing

• A brokerage has multiple agents, and both parties agree to in-house representation

  
  

Is Dual Agency Legal in Michigan?

Yes, dual agency is legal in Michigan—but only if both the buyer and seller give written consent. It’s also required that the agent clearly disclose the dual agency situation before continuing with the transaction.

How Does It Work?

When an agent acts as a dual agent, they must:

• Treat both the buyer and seller fairly and honestly

• Provide equal access to property information

• Remain neutral—they can’t advise one side over the other

• Not disclose confidential information, like how much either party is willing to pay or accept

  
  

It’s important to know that in a dual agency situation, the agent’s role shifts more toward facilitating the deal, rather than advocating strongly for one party.

Pros and Cons of Dual Agency

✅ Pros

• Smoother communication between both sides

• Potential for faster negotiations

• One point of contact for the entire deal

⚠️ Cons

• Less personalized negotiation strategy

• Agent must stay neutral, which may feel limiting

• Some buyers or sellers may prefer dedicated representation

  
  

At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, led by Kerry Keefer Fischer, we always explain the pros and cons of dual agency to our clients so they can make an informed choice.

What’s Best for You?

Dual agency can work well in certain scenarios, especially if both parties feel confident and trust the process. However, some buyers and sellers prefer having separate agents to fully represent their interests.

If you’re not sure what’s right for you, our team will help you understand your options and choose the approach that gives you the best experience—whether you’re buying in Kalamazoo, selling in Portage, or exploring both in Mattawan, Battle Creek, or beyond.

Have Questions About Dual Agency?

We’re here to help. At the Keefer Fischer Real Estate Team, we serve buyers and sellers throughout Southwest Michigan with honesty, experience, and expert market knowledge. Whether you’re working with us as a buyer, seller, or both—we’ll always put transparency and your goals first.

Contact us today to get started or to learn more about how dual agency works in your local market.