agency

Dual and Designated Agency (Virginia)

Virginia permits dual agency, or dual representation for independent contractors, only with written consent of all clients after written disclosure on a separate signed form, not buried in the contract. A dual agent cannot advise either party on terms or advise the buyer on condition or repairs. In designated agency, a principal or supervising broker assigns different licensees to buyer and seller; the designated agents are not dual agents, but the supervising broker is considered a dual agent. If a client refuses dual consent, the licensee may withdraw without liability.