What Is a Designated Agency in Real Estate?

A designated agency in real estate is when two agents from the same brokerage represent both the buyer and the seller—each acting exclusively for their own client. This setup allows both parties to receive full representation while avoiding the legal conflicts of dual agency.

🏠 How Designated Agency Works

  • Both agents work under the same brokerage but represent different clients.
  • The broker appoints one agent to represent the seller and another to represent the buyer.
  • Each agent owes full fiduciary duties—confidentiality, loyalty, and disclosure—to their respective client.
  • The broker acts as a neutral party, ensuring compliance and ethical conduct.

This model preserves client advocacy while maintaining compliance with brokerage oversight.

⚖️ Designated Agency vs. Dual Agency

  • Designated agency: Each client has their own agent within the same firm.
  • Dual agency: One agent represents both buyer and seller at the same time.
  • Transaction broker: A neutral facilitator assists both parties without representation.

Many brokerages prefer designated agency because it allows for balanced representation while avoiding conflicts of interest.

đź“Ť What FSBO Sellers Should Know

When you list your home through a flat fee MLS service like Brokerless, your listing becomes visible to agents across all brokerages. This means both designated and buyer’s agents can show your property—helping you reach more buyers while keeping control of your sale.