What default relationship exists if no written agreement is made between a broker and a buyer?

When there is no written agreement established between a broker and a buyer, the default relationship is that of a transaction broker. This type of relationship allows the broker to assist both the buyer and the seller in a transaction without representing either party exclusively. The transaction broker provides limited representation and does not have fiduciary duties to either side, enabling them to facilitate the transaction while maintaining neutrality.

The transaction broker's role involves offering services such as helping with paperwork, providing market information, and facilitating negotiations, but they do not advocate for one party over the other. This setup serves to avoid potential conflicts of interest and allows the broker to work with both parties fairly in the absence of a formal agency agreement.

In contrast, other relationship types like a buyer-agent relationship would require a written agreement where the broker represents the buyer exclusively, leading to a fiduciary duty towards the buyer. Similarly, an exclusive agency relationship involves a commitment to one party, also necessitating a written agreement, as does a seller's agent relationship, which focuses solely on representing the seller. The transactional nature of a transaction broker relationship stands out in circumstances lacking a formalized agreement, emphasizing neutrality and limited representation.