When representing a buyer, which ethical consideration should a real estate agent prioritize?

When representing a buyer, the ethical consideration that should be prioritized is disclosing any known defects in the property. This is crucial because real estate agents have a fiduciary duty to their clients, which means they are obligated to act in the best interest of the buyer. Transparency about any issues with the property not only builds trust between the agent and the buyer but also helps the buyer make informed decisions.

Disclosing known defects is essential for protecting the buyer’s interests, as it directly impacts their investment and can influence their willingness to proceed with a purchase. Ethical practice in real estate includes honesty and full disclosure, as omitting such information could lead to legal repercussions for both the agent and the brokerage.

While considerations like minimizing dual representation and encouraging competition among buyers may have their places, the immediate priority should be ensuring the buyer is fully aware of any potential issues with the property they are considering. Maximizing personal commissions is counterproductive to the duty of care agents owe their clients and represents a conflict of interest that could lead to unethical behavior.