What type of agent represents different sides of a transaction but works for the same brokerage?

The correct answer is designated agent. In a real estate context, a designated agent is an individual within the same brokerage who represents different clients in a transaction, typically the buyer and the seller. This arrangement allows the brokerage to represent both parties while maintaining the confidentiality and loyalty of each agent to their respective client.

In Massachusetts, the designated agency model is designed to ensure that the clients receive full representation and that their interests are properly advocated for without conflict. The designated agent is tasked with working specifically for one client in the transaction, which preserves the integrity of the agency relationship for both parties, allowing the brokerage to facilitate the transaction while still providing dedicated service to each client involved.

This contrasts with other types of agency relationships, such as dual agency, where one agent represents both parties directly. In dual agency, the agent must navigate the potential conflicts of interest that may arise from representing both sides, which has different implications for the agent's responsibilities and the clients' rights.