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Sometimes a brokerage finds itself representing both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. In Maine, this is permitted only through Disclosed Dual Agency and requires the written informed consent of all parties. When a brokerage becomes a disclosed dual agent, the nature of the relationship changes significantly. The brokerage continues to assist both clients through the transaction... |
8/28/26 | |
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A buyer agent's role is to advocate for the buyer's interests throughout the transaction. This includes identifying suitable properties, presenting offers promptly, disclosing known material facts, advising clients when specialized expertise may be needed, safeguarding confidential information, and managing transaction-related funds responsibly. Buyer agents must exercise reasonable skill and care while complying with all applicable laws, including ... |
8/21/26 | |
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Once a consumer signs a brokerage agreement, they become a client, and the licensee assumes fiduciary duties. In Maine, many agents remember these responsibilities using the acronym OLDCARD: [Obedience • Loyalty • Disclosure • Confidentiality • Accounting • Reasonable Care • Due Diligence] A seller agent's primary responsibility... |
8/14/26 | |
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In Maine, every real estate licensee must clearly understand the role they are serving in a transaction. A licensee may act as a seller's agent, buyer's agent, disclosed dual agent, transaction broker, or subagent. The role is established after reviewing the Maine Real Estate Brokerage Relationships Form and discussing representation options with the consumer. Here's an important point many licensees overlook... |
8/7/26 | |
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Not every ethical decision is answered by the law or the Code of Ethics. The next lens is company policy. Brokerages establish policies to manage risk, maintain consistency, and define acceptable business practices. In many cases, company policies are more... |
7/31/26 | |
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After considering the law, many licensees next look through the lens of professional ethics. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics, established by the National Association of REALTORS®, sets higher standards for conduct than many laws require. It focuses on professionalism, honesty, cooperation, consumer protection, and ... |
7/24/26 | |
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When evaluating any real estate decision, the first lens should always be the law. Federal laws establish a baseline for professional conduct. Laws such as the Fair Housing Act, RESPA, and Truth in Lending help protect consumers and ... |
7/17/26 | |
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Every real estate transaction presents decisions, challenges, and sometimes ethical gray areas. When faced with a difficult situation, successful licensees don't rely on instinct alone—they evaluate the issue through a series of lenses... |
7/10/26 |
