In Ontario, the term 'Agency' has been replaced with the term 'Representation'.  It is a legal relationship that exists between a Realtor (a real Estate Brokerage Firm), and a Buyer or Seller, or Landlord or Tenant.  A fiduciary obligation exists between the Realtor and the Client, and the Realtor must hold the interests of his client in the highest regard, and above his or her own interests, and the Realtor or his sales representative must be loyal to the Client.

This relationship should be explained and put into writing at the earliest possible time, before a home is listed, and before going out to look at houses.  Commercial real estate is treated in the same fashion.  A client may assume the realtor represents him or her, when in fact that may not be the case. 

There can be Seller Representation, Buyer Representaion, or Dual Representation.  There are client relationships and customer relationships.  There is a brochure prepared by the TORONTO REAL ESTATE BOARD that will expain it all to you in detail.  If you would like to have a copy free of charge and without obligation,  just contact us, and we will put one in the mail.  No one will contact you, and your privacy is assured.

Realtors are held to a very strict CODE OF ETHICS.  Please look it over.