Why I Don’t “Double-End” or Do Dual Agency Deals — And Why That’s a Good Thing for You
By Lianne McLean
In California, dual agency — when one real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction — is legal. You might also hear it called “double-ending” or “back-ending” a deal. While some agents view it as an opportunity to earn both sides of the commission, I don’t see it that way.
At McLean Realty Group, I believe that real estate is built on trust, advocacy, and clear fiduciary responsibility. And in my view, you simply can’t be a true fiduciary to both sides of a transaction.
What Dual Agency Really Means
When one agent represents both buyer and seller, that agent must walk a tightrope. They’re supposed to remain neutral — helping both parties equally, without favoring either side. In theory, it sounds fair. In practice, it’s nearly impossible.
Imagine trying to negotiate the best price for a seller while also helping a buyer pay the least amount possible. One side’s gain is the other’s loss. No matter how professional or ethical the agent is, they can’t advocate 100% for both parties at once.
What a Fiduciary Agent Does for You
When I represent only you, I can fully act as your advocate. That means I can:
- Negotiate solely in your best interest — whether that’s price, terms, contingencies, or repairs.
- Protect your confidential information, like your bottom line or motivation to buy or sell.
- Analyze market data and guide you on strategy without holding anything back.
- Recommend inspectors, lenders, and contractors without divided loyalties.
- Manage timelines and disclosures to make sure nothing is missed that could put you at risk.
- Handle communication and problem-solving with full transparency and accountability.
- Guide you through emotional moments, especially when stakes are high.
That’s what being a fiduciary means — loyalty, care, confidentiality, and full disclosure — always in service of your best outcome.
“I don’t double-end deals because I believe my clients deserve 100% of my loyalty and focus. My role is to protect your interests, and that’s not possible when I’m trying to serve two masters.
Choosing an agent isn’t just about who can get your home sold or help you buy fast — it’s about who’s in your corner. When you work with me, you’ll know exactly who I represent, and you’ll never have to wonder whose side I’m on.
Your goals are my goals. Your win is my win. And that’s the way real estate representation should be.“ -L. McLean
Why I Avoid Dual Agency
The only rare exception I might make is when two family members or close friends are transacting with each other — for example, a parent selling to a child — and the price and terms have already been predetermined. In those limited cases, I’m not “negotiating” or “representing both sides”; I’m simply facilitating the paperwork and ensuring the process runs smoothly.
In such situations, I also reduce my commission rate, because my role is administrative rather than advisory.
Why this maters to you
Choosing an agent isn’t just about who can get your home sold or help you buy fast — it’s about who’s in your corner. When you work with me, you’ll know exactly who I represent, and you’ll never have to wonder whose side I’m on.
Your goals are my goals. Your win is my win. And that’s the way real estate representation should be.
Thinking of buying or selling?
Let’s talk about how I can represent you with undivided loyalty and expert care.