What is the term for a broker who represents both the seller and the buyer in a transaction?

The term "intermediary" specifically refers to a broker who represents both the seller and the buyer in a real estate transaction. This scenario occurs when a broker facilitates the transaction without advocating exclusively for one party over the other, effectively serving as a neutral third party.

In this context, the intermediary must navigate the interests of both the buyer and the seller while maintaining fairness and transparency. This role is particularly distinct because it requires the broker to carefully manage conflicts of interest, ensuring that both parties are informed and their rights are upheld throughout the negotiation process.

While the other terms like "agent," "facilitator," and "negotiator" have their own meanings within the scope of real estate transactions, they do not accurately capture the dual representation aspect specific to the intermediary role. An agent typically represents only one party, either the seller or the buyer. A facilitator helps transactions but does not directly represent either party in the same way. A negotiator focuses more on the bargaining process rather than the representation aspect inherent in the intermediary position.