Seller's Agent
Learn how a seller’s agent helps Canadian homeowners list and sell their property, from pricing to closing, and what fiduciary duties they owe.
May 22, 2025
What is a Seller's Agent?
A seller’s agent, also known as a listing agent, is a licensed real estate professional who represents the interests of the property seller in a real estate transaction.
Why Do Seller's Agents Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate, the seller’s agent plays a key role in marketing the property, attracting buyers, and negotiating offers on behalf of the seller.
Responsibilities typically include:
- Pricing the home strategically using market analysis
- Listing the property on the MLS
- Hosting open houses and private showings
- Advising the seller on offers and counteroffers
- Coordinating legal and administrative steps toward closing
The seller’s agent owes fiduciary duties to their client, including loyalty, confidentiality, and full disclosure. Their commission is generally paid from the proceeds of the sale, typically shared with the buyer’s agent.
Understanding the role of the seller’s agent is essential for homeowners looking to sell, as the agent directly impacts sale price, timing, and ease of transaction.
Example of a Seller's Agent
A homeowner hires a seller’s agent to list their Toronto condo, who markets it across MLS and social media, leading to multiple offers above asking price.
Key Takeaways
- Represents the property seller.
- Provides pricing, marketing, and negotiation support.
- Paid through sale commission.
- Bound by fiduciary duties.
- Crucial to a smooth and profitable sale.
Related Terms
- Buyer’s Agent
- Dual Agency
- Listing Agreement
- Commission
- MLS
The 8530 Cambie Street site in Vancouver, directly adjacent to Marine Drive Station. / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments
A sketch of Marine Gateway (left) and Marine Gateway 2 (right). / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments 
A rendering of Marine Gateway 2 at 8530 Cambie Street from along Cambie Street. / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments 
An aerial rendering of Marine Gateway (south) and Marine Gateway 2 (north). / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments 
A side view of Marine Gateway 2 and the layout and elevations of the industrial and retail space. / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments
A rendering of the elevated park at Marine Gateway 2. / Perkins&Will, PCI Developments 
Left: 1675-1685 Eglinton — Right: 1711-1741 Eglinton/Kirkor Architects and Planners, Shelborne Capital
101 Spadina/Audax, Devron Developments
340-376R Dufferin and 2 Melbourne/Sweeny &Co Architects Inc., Hullmark
1705 Weston/Graziani + Corazza Architects, Altree Developments
1276 Islington/Kirkor Architects and Planners, Ranee Management
3725 Bloor/Montgomery Sisam Architects Inc.
2-12 Cawthra/ZAS Architects + Interiors Inc, BV Realty Partners
The 807-815 Hornby Street site and its surrounding context, including nearby hotels. / SHoP Architects, BOP Architects, Reliance Properties
A rendering of the hotel and residential lobbies along Hornby Street. / SHoP Architects, BOP Architects, Reliance Properties
A rendering of the building from the corner of Hornby Street and Robson Street. / SHoP Architects, BOP Architects, Reliance Properties
Renderings of the 35-storey tower proposed for 807-815 Hornby Street in Vancouver. / SHoP Architects, BOP Architects, Reliance Properties
