Buyer Loyalty Obligation
Definition
The duty of a buyer's agent to act solely in the buyer's best interest, avoiding any conflicts of interest and putting the buyer's needs above the agent's own financial interests.
Example
An agent knows one listing offers a higher commission than another. The loyalty obligation prevents the agent from recommending the higher-commission property solely for financial gain — the agent must recommend what best fits the buyer's needs.
Exam Tip
Loyalty questions often involve commission conflicts. If an agent recommends a property because of higher pay, that violates loyalty. The correct answer always prioritizes the CLIENT's interests over the agent's compensation.
Related Buyer Rep Terms
Buyer Broker Duties
The fiduciary obligations a buyer's agent owes to their client, including loyalty, obedience, disclosure, confidentiality, accounting, and reasonable care.
Buyer Representation Disclosure
A form that explains to the buyer the types of agency relationships available and the duties associated with each, required to be provided before substantive discussions begin.
Cooperative Compensation
The practice of a listing broker sharing commission with a buyer's broker, historically offered through the MLS but now prohibited from MLS display under the 2024 NAR settlement.
Buyer Consultation
An initial meeting between a buyer and agent to discuss the buyer's needs, explain agency relationships, review representation agreements, and establish expectations for the home-buying process.
Termination of Buyer Agency Agreement
The legal ending of a buyer representation agreement, which can occur through expiration, mutual consent, breach, or specific termination provisions outlined in the contract.
Buyer Due Diligence
The buyer's right and responsibility to investigate a property's condition, legal status, and suitability before completing a purchase, typically during a specified due diligence period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Test Your Buyer Rep Knowledge
Practice with exam-style questions to make sure you can apply Buyer Loyalty Obligation and other buyer rep concepts.