Which duty requires the agent to act in the interest of the principal?

The duty that requires the agent to act in the interest of the principal is loyalty. This duty compels the agent to prioritize the principal’s interests above their own and to avoid any conflicts of interest. It is a fundamental aspect of the principal-agent relationship, where the agent must act in a way that benefits the principal, maintaining a level of fidelity and trust that is crucial in real estate transactions.

In the context of real estate, loyalty means that the agent should not engage in activities that would undermine the principal's objectives, such as representing a competing buyer or seller without full disclosure and consent. This duty ensures that the agent fully advocates for the principal's best interests, thereby fostering trust and encouraging open communication.

Obedience, while an important duty, pertains to following the lawful instructions of the principal rather than necessarily acting in their best interest in situations where such instructions might conflict with what is best for them. Exclusivity refers to the exclusivity of representation or the agreement that only one agent will represent a client, which doesn't relate directly to the interests of the principal. Confidentiality safeguards the private information of the principal, but it does not encompass the broader responsibility of acting in their best interests. Thus, loyalty is the key duty that encapsulates the agent