Iowa Real Estate Practice Exam

Who does a cooperating broker represent in a transaction?

1. The seller as a sub-agent

2. The buyer as an agent

3. The listing office

4. The finance company

The correct answer is: The buyer as an agent

In a real estate transaction, a cooperating broker primarily represents the buyer as an agent. This means that their responsibilities are focused on advocating for the buyer’s interests, offering advice, and negotiating terms on their behalf. The cooperating broker works in conjunction with the listing agent, who represents the seller, but their fiduciary duty and loyalty are to the buyer throughout the transaction process. This relationship typically involves gaining an in-depth understanding of the buyer's needs, helping to search for properties that meet those needs, and guiding them through the process of making an offer and closing on a home. The key element here is that the cooperating broker has a direct agent-client relationship with the buyer, positioning them to act in the buyer’s best interests. In contrast, a sub-agent relationship would involve a cooperating broker acting on behalf of the seller, which is not the case here, and the listing office primarily represents the seller, not the buyer. A finance company, meanwhile, plays a different role in a transaction, typically providing funds for the purchase but not acting as an agent for either party.