When buying or selling a home in North Carolina, it’s important to know exactly who your agent is representing—and how that can impact your transaction. In this quick explainer, our Broker-in-Charge, Nolan Formalarie, walks you through two key real estate terms that often cause confusion: Dual Agency and Designated Agency.

🎥 Watch the Video

Want a clear explanation straight from the source? Watch Nolan’s full video below to get expert insights in just 2 minutes.

🔄 What is Dual Agency?

A Dual Agency happens when the same real estate firm—or even the same agent—represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. This means the agent must remain neutral, not advocating for one party over the other. While legal and often used in North Carolina, dual agency requires full disclosure and written consent from both sides.

Nolan breaks this down simply: “We must treat each party fairly, but we cannot negotiate strongly for either one.” If you’re looking for someone to fight for your bottom line, dual agency might not be the best fit.

👤 What is Designated Agency?

Designated Agency is a more balanced approach. It still happens within the same firm, but instead of one agent handling both sides, each party gets their own dedicated agent. This setup allows both the buyer and seller to receive full, undivided representation.

According to Nolan, “This way, you’ve got someone working for you exclusively—even though both agents work under the same broker-in-charge.”

⚖️ Why Does This Matter?

Understanding who represents your interests can make a big difference in how negotiations unfold and how comfortable you feel throughout the process. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your third, knowing the difference between dual and designated agency gives you more control and peace of mind.

💬 Need Help Navigating the Process?

At Discover NC Homes, we’re committed to transparency, professionalism, and helping our clients feel confident every step of the way. If you have questions about agency relationships—or any other part of the real estate process—reach out today. We’re here to guide you home.

📞 (910) 477-0085
🌐 www.DiscoverNCHomes.com

About Antonel Neculai