Agency disclosure

A written notice explaining who an agent represents in the deal. Most states require it early in the relationship so nobody is confused about whose side an agent is on.

Agents & representation · Updated September 2026

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Part 1 of 4

Why a seller cares

The agency disclosure says in writing whose side an agent is on, and it usually arrives before anything else is signed. Reading it is how you learn whether the person across the table represents the buyer, you, or nobody.

Part 2 of 4

A simple example

An agent brings a buyer to your FSBO home and hands you an agency disclosure. It says they represent the buyer, and that you are not their client.

Agency disclosure: a simple example
What the form saysWhat it means for you
The agent represents the buyerTheir advice is for the buyer; be friendly and careful
The agent represents the sellerThat is your agent, under your listing agreement
Transaction broker or facilitatorThey work for the deal, not for either side

The disclosure is the answer to "whose side are you on," delivered before anyone has to ask.

Part 3 of 4

What people get wrong

That an agent who is helpful is on your side. Helpful is their job; the disclosure says who they owe their loyalty to.

Part 4 of 4 · where to read next

Where it appears in the sale

What a definition is, and what it isn't

Keighbor is a software company, not a law firm, brokerage, or tax adviser. This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or real estate advice about your sale. Your situation may differ. Before acting on a contract, disclosure, title, tax, or pricing question, ask an appropriately licensed professional in your state.

Written and researched by Keighbor Research · drawn from the reference glossary · how we research and check what we publish

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