What is the fiduciary duty of an agent to their principal?

The fiduciary duty of an agent to their principal is fundamentally rooted in trust and loyalty. This duty compels the agent to act in the best interests of the principal, which means prioritizing the principal's needs and objectives above all else. A fiduciary relationship requires full transparency, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to the principal's success, ensuring that any action taken is aligned with the principal's interests.

Fulfilling this duty involves providing advice, negotiating deals, and managing the transaction process while always considering what is best for the principal, not for the agent's personal gain. This establishes a strong ethical foundation in business relationships, particularly in real estate transactions, where significant financial stakes are involved.

In contrast, maximizing profit for oneself or merely providing general tips or disclosing personal opinions does not fulfill the fundamental obligation of loyalty and advocacy that is expected in a fiduciary role. Such actions do not prioritize the principal's interests, which is essential to maintaining trust and integrity in the agent-principal relationship.