Demystifying Agency

Demystifying Agency: What Massachusetts Buyers and Sellers Need to Know At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe that education empowers our clients to make confident decisions. That’s why Talk Real Estate Roundtable is more than just a show—it’s a platform to inform, clarify, and uplift. On the May 24th episode, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace tackled one of the most misunderstood topics in real estate: agency relationships in Massachusetts. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or preparing to list your home, understanding who represents whom—and how—is critical. Why Agency Matters More Than Ever The real estate market is evolving, and so are the rules. With recent changes prompted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, agency disclosure and buyer representation are under the spotlight. But too often, consumers are still confused. Here’s the bottom line: When you call the listing agent, you’re calling someone who works for the seller. Unrepresented buyers are not owed the same fiduciary duties as clients with a buyer’s agent. Dual agency—where one agent represents both buyer and seller—is legal in Massachusetts, but it comes with important limitations and requires full consent from both parties. "Going Direct" Doesn't Always Pay One of the biggest myths Sharon and Melissa addressed? That going straight to the listing agent gets buyers a better deal. “The ‘deal’ you’re getting,” said Melissa, “is that you’re not represented.” While some buyers think they’ll save money by avoiding a second agent, Sharon pointed out that representation matters far more than imagined. Without it, buyers may not fully understand the process, negotiate effectively, or even realize what they’re signing. Know Before You Go So what should buyers do? 1. Don’t rush into contracts you don’t understand. New regulations require agents to outline buyer compensation upfront. Make sure you know what you're signing—and what you're paying for. 2. Interview buyer agents. Just like hiring a financial advisor or contractor, you should feel confident in the person representing your interests. 3. Say less at open houses. Unless your agent is present, hold back on sharing personal details. The listing agent is listening—and works for the seller. Boston Connect: A Culture of Integrity The episode also spotlighted Boston Connect agent Matt Mahoney, who exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity. When faced with the option of dual agency, Matt chose to prioritize his client’s best interests rather than chase both sides of a commission. Sharon praised this mindset, emphasizing how proud she is to have agents like Matt who go above and beyond to do what’s right. Let Us Represent You the Right Way Real estate is complex—but at Boston Connect, we simplify it with transparency, professionalism, and heart. 📍 Visit our office in Pembroke, MA 📞 Call us at (781) 826-8000 💻 www.bostonconnect.com Whether you’re buying, selling, or just seeking answers, we’re here to help you move smarter.