Let’s be honest—brokerage relationships don’t exactly sound thrilling.
But they matter. In fact, they might be one of the most important parts of a real estate transaction—and most people don’t realize just how much until something goes wrong.

Every conversation, showing, and question you ask is shaped by whether or not you’re in a legal working relationship with a real estate agent—and if so, what kind.

Let’s break it down, using the most common starting point for buyers as an example: the Open House.

Open House = Open Conversation? Not Quite.

You walk into an Open House, and the agent greets you warmly.
They show you around, point out the kitchen updates, and ask what you’re looking for. Seems helpful, right?

But here’s the catch: unless you’ve signed an agreement with that agent, they don’t represent you.
They either represent the seller—or are working as a neutral facilitator (a transaction-broker in Colorado, which means they assist both sides without advocating for either).

This distinction matters.
Because once you start sharing your thoughts, timeline, financial situation, or how much you love the house, you may be offering the seller valuable leverage—whether you realize it or not.

Information Is Leverage—So Be Mindful Who You Give It To

Chris Voss, the former FBI hostage negotiator and author of Never Split the Difference, says it best:

“He who has the most information wins.”

In real estate, this couldn’t be more true.

A skilled agent knows how to listen more than they speak.
They’ll guide the process strategically—sharing enough to keep things moving, but protecting what shouldn’t be shared until the timing is right.
This is where brokerage relationships matter most.
If the agent isn’t working for you, they’re not obligated to help you win.

This isn’t about playing games—it’s about clarity, boundaries, and knowing that even a casual conversation can shift the power dynamic in a negotiation.

What a Realtor Can and Can’t Do at an Open House

If they represent the seller or are serving as a transaction-broker, a realtor can:
• Answer general questions about the property
• Provide information about the area, schools, or comparable homes
• Be courteous and knowledgeable

But what they shouldn’t do:
• Advise you on what to offer
• Reveal what the seller might accept
• Strategize on your behalf

And if they do, that opens the door to potential misunderstandings—or worse, legal gray areas.

So… What If You Like the Agent?

That’s a good sign.
If the home isn’t the right fit but the agent left a great impression, you’re welcome to explore a buyer agency agreement with them for future properties.
That way, they can legally act in your best interest—and you can speak openly, ask strategic questions, and expect true advocacy in return.

And When It’s Time to Sell? The Same Rules Apply

When hiring a listing agent, your relationship structure matters just as much.
Do they know how to:
• Protect your privacy when speaking with buyers and agents?
• Read between the lines in a buyer’s comments or questions?
• Structure showings and negotiations to give you an advantage?

Because when it comes to selling, subtle choices—like what’s said during showings or how quickly to respond to an offer—can have a big impact.

Smart Buyers and Sellers Ask Smart Questions

Before hiring an agent, consider asking:
• How do you handle negotiations?
• What’s your communication style when it comes to protecting sensitive information?
• How do you guide clients through pricing and offer strategies?

Real estate isn’t just about paperwork and property tours—it’s about people, timing, psychology, and being smart about every move.
A good agent will educate you.
A great one will protect your goals as if they were their own.

Ask the Question Others Don’t

Anytime you’re in a real estate conversation, ask:

“Who do you represent in this transaction?”

If the answer isn’t you, proceed with caution—and with awareness.

And if you’re ready to have someone truly in your corner, I’d love to connect.
Advocacy, strategy, and negotiation—it’s not just my job. It’s what I love to do.