When must a real estate agent disclose their relationship with a client to other parties in a transaction?

Agency disclosure is a fundamental transparency requirement in Canadian real estate practice that protects all parties by ensuring they understand the representation structure before making decisions. This requirement stems from fiduciary duty principles and consumer protection legislation across provinces. The 'earliest practical opportunity' standard prevents misunderstandings that could arise if parties operate under incorrect assumptions about who represents whom. This disclosure must occur before substantive negotiations begin, not just when convenient or when asked. The principle recognizes that real estate transactions involve significant financial decisions where parties need complete information about representation to protect their interests. This requirement applies regardless of whether conflicts exist, as the disclosure itself prevents potential conflicts from developing into actual harm. The timing is crucial because once parties begin sharing confidential information or making strategic decisions, undisclosed agency relationships can compromise the integrity of the entire transaction process.