Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make in their lives. It’s a process that involves complex legal documents, intense negotiations, and thousands—if not hundreds of thousands—of dollars. That’s where real estate agents come in. But what many first-time buyers and sellers don’t realize is that not all agents work for you.
Understanding the difference between a buyer’s agent and a seller’s agent is essential to protecting your interests during a real estate transaction. While both professionals are licensed to help you navigate the homebuying or selling process, they serve very different roles. Here’s a clear breakdown of how they work—and more importantly, who’s working for you.
Who Is a Buyer’s Agent?
A buyer’s agent is a licensed real estate professional who represents the interests of the homebuyer. From the moment you start searching for homes to the day you close, a buyer’s agent is your advocate.
Their primary job is to help you find a home that fits your needs and budget, negotiate the best possible price and terms, and guide you through inspections, appraisals, and the mountains of paperwork involved. They work to ensure you are not overpaying, that you understand the neighborhood, and that you’re making an informed decision.
Some of the tasks a buyer’s agent typically handles include:
Scheduling and attending showings
Providing insights on local market conditions
Submitting and negotiating offers
Recommending professionals like inspectors, attorneys, or mortgage lenders
Walking you through contingencies and deadlines
Helping you navigate issues that arise after the home inspection or appraisal
Most importantly, they have a fiduciary duty to you, the buyer. That means they are legally obligated to act in your best interests, disclose relevant information, and maintain confidentiality.
Who Is a Seller’s Agent?
A seller’s agent, also known as a listing agent, represents the person selling the home. Their job is to help the seller get the highest possible price for their property, market it effectively, and ensure a smooth transaction from listing to closing.
The seller’s agent works for the homeowner and is bound by fiduciary duties to them. This means their loyalty lies with the seller—not with you, the buyer—even if you interact directly with them during a showing or open house.
The seller’s agent’s responsibilities typically include:
Determining a competitive listing price
Marketing the home via websites, signage, and open houses
Coordinating showings and staging
Advising on offers and negotiating terms on the seller’s behalf
Handling the paperwork related to the sale
Working to close the deal quickly and profitably for the seller
While a seller’s agent can answer questions about the property and relay your interest to the seller, it’s important to remember they are not there to protect your interests. They are contractually obligated to the homeowner.
Can One Agent Represent Both Sides?
In some situations, an agent might attempt to represent both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. This is called dual agency, and it’s legal in some states but highly controversial.
With dual agency, one agent essentially acts as a middleman, trying to balance both parties’ interests. However, this creates a clear conflict of interest. After all, how can one agent help the seller get the highest price, while also helping the buyer negotiate the lowest one?
Because of these ethical gray areas, many experts recommend avoiding dual agency. If you ever find yourself in this situation, make sure you understand the legal implications and whether your state allows it. You always have the right to request your own independent representation.
Why Having Your Own Agent Matters
When you’re buying a home, especially for the first time, having a dedicated buyer’s agent can be a game-changer. Here’s why:
They level the playing field: Sellers have professional representation—you should too.
They help you make smart decisions: From evaluating comparable sales to pointing out red flags, a buyer’s agent offers informed guidance.
They simplify the process: With all the deadlines, inspections, negotiations, and financing steps, having a trusted advisor keeps you on track.
They save you money: Skilled buyer’s agents can often negotiate better prices, request seller credits, or identify when you’re overpaying.
And here’s the best part—you usually don’t pay for your buyer’s agent directly. In most cases, the seller pays the commission for both agents as part of the transaction. That means you get all the benefits of having someone in your corner without adding to your out-of-pocket costs.
How to Choose the Right Agent for You
Finding a trustworthy agent—whether you’re buying or selling—takes more than just picking someone off a Google search. You want someone experienced, local, communicative, and, above all, someone who understands your goals.
Here are a few tips to help you choose:
Interview multiple agents before committing.
Ask about recent transactions, especially ones similar to yours.
Check their licensing and credentials to ensure they’re in good standing.
Get referrals from friends, family, or coworkers who’ve recently bought or sold homes.
Trust your gut—chemistry and communication style matter when you’re entering such an important relationship.
Remember, the right agent isn’t just there to unlock doors or fill out paperwork. They’re there to guide you through one of the biggest transactions of your life with knowledge, honesty, and expertise.
Final Thoughts: Know Who’s Working for You
Real estate transactions are high-stakes. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling one you’ve lived in for years, knowing who’s on your side can make all the difference.
A seller’s agent works to get the best deal for the homeowner. A buyer’s agent is there to protect you, negotiate for you, and guide you through every step of the process with your interests in mind. Don’t assume an agent you meet at an open house is working for you—in many cases, they’re not.
Taking the time to find the right agent ensures that your goals, concerns, and finances are well-represented. Because when it comes to real estate, who works for you can shape everything from your purchase price to your peace of mind.
