What is required from an agent when following lawful instructions from a client?

An agent is required to provide obedience to the lawful instructions of a client. This principle is foundational to the fiduciary relationship that exists between a real estate agent and their client. When a client gives lawful instructions, the agent is expected to follow those instructions as long as they adhere to legal and ethical standards. This duty of obedience ensures that the agent acts in accordance with the client's wishes, effectively advocating for the client's best interests in the transaction.

The concept of obedience reinforces the trust placed in the agent by the client and helps maintain a professional relationship where the client's goals are prioritized. For instance, if a client specifies a particular type of property or a specific price range, the agent must focus their efforts to find properties that meet these criteria.

In contrast, while disclosure of personal interests and negotiation skills are important aspects of an agent's role, they are not directly related to following the client's lawful instructions in the same manner. Continued education is also valuable for an agent's growth and compliance with regulations, but it does not pertain specifically to the obligation to obey lawful client directives. Thus, obedience remains the critical factor in this context.