Short answerYes, but only as a limited agent with the written, informed consent of both parties. A limited agent cannot share either side's confidential information, such as how low the seller will go or how high the buyer will pay. Each brokerage must have a written policy stating whether it allows limited agency.
How limited agency works
- Indiana calls dual agency limited agency.
- Both the buyer and the seller must consent in writing before the licensee acts as a limited agent.
- The limited agent cannot disclose, without written consent, either party's willingness to accept or pay a different price or terms, or other confidential information.
- Every managing broker keeps a written office policy that says whether the firm allows limited agency.
What it means for you
| Arrangement | Who advocates for you |
|---|---|
| Separate agents for buyer and seller | Each side has its own advocate. |
| Limited agency | One licensee serves both sides in a neutral role. |
| Buyer without an agent | The listing agent represents only the seller. |
Questions to ask before you consent
- What exactly will you not be able to do for me?
- Does the fee change?
- Can I decline and use a different agent?
Frequently asked questions
Is dual agency legal in Indiana?
Yes, as limited agency with written consent from all parties.
Can I say no to limited agency?
Yes. You can decline and have a separate agent represent you.
Keep reading
Want to know what a buyer's inspector may find before they do?
Book a free pre listing condition walk. I walk the house with you, point out what inspectors and FHA, VA, and USDA appraisers tend to flag, and give you planning ranges so you can decide what to fix, credit, price in, or disclose.
Book a condition walkOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email john@yourpropertynegotiator.com.
The condition walk is a REALTOR® and contractor evaluation, not a home inspection, and it does not replace one. If you have already signed a listing agreement with another agent, please take these questions to your agent.
Looking at a house and not sure what you are getting into?
Ask for a free Before You Offer review. Send me the listing. I look over the photos, the seller's disclosure, and recent sales, then flag likely condition issues and planning cost ranges before you write an offer.
Request a Before You Offer reviewOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email john@yourpropertynegotiator.com.
The Before You Offer review is a REALTOR® and contractor review of the listing, not a home inspection. It is for buyers who are not already working with an agent. If you have an agent, please bring these questions to your agent.
Sources
- Indiana Code 25-34.1-10-12, licensee acting as limited agent
- Indiana Code 25-34.1-10-13, written office policy
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.