Who does the Real Estate Agent Represent?

EBA - EXCLUSIVE BUYER AGENT

works for an office that does not take listings of any kind and represents only buyers. The only way for a buyer to be guaranteed 100% representation. (See also, Why Use an EBA.)

SA - SELLER'S AGENT

also known as "listing agent". This is the agent whose name is on the sign. Legally obligated to represent the seller's interests. Duty is to get the highest price and best terms for the seller, maintain seller's confidentiality and disclose all known information about prospective buyers. Seller is "client", buyers are "customers".

BA - BUYER AGENT

an agent retained by the buyer to represent the buyer's interests. Requires an agreement of the parties for agent to represent the buyer - not all agents who show homes to buyers represent them! Duty is to locate the right home for the buyer, and negotiate on buyers' behalf for best price and terms, maintain buyer's confidentiality and disclose all known information about the seller AND THE HOME to the buyer. Buyer is "client", sellers are "customers".

DA - DUAL AGENT

whenever the agents for the seller and the buyer work for the same real estate company, or "broker", they BOTH become DUAL AGENTS. Neither buyer nor seller are fully represented. "Designated agency" is a form of dual agency. Liken this to attorneys not representing both sides in the same court case - when they work with both sides they are conducting "mediation" - helping the parties reach their own agreements, but not going to bat for either one.

Which would you prefer?