When must a real estate agent provide an agency disclosure form?

A real estate agent must provide an agency disclosure form at the first substantial contact with a potential client because this is essential for establishing transparency in the agency relationship. This initial point of contact is crucial, as it helps the client understand the nature of the relationship and the duties the agent owes to them.

Agency disclosure is designed to inform clients about whether the agent is representing them as a buyer, a seller, or a different party in the transaction. By disclosing this information early on, it ensures that clients can make informed decisions about their representation. This practice is important to maintain trust and clarity in the client-agent relationship from the outset.

Providing the agency disclosure at other stages, such as at closing, after an offer is accepted, or during the final walkthrough, does not align with the intent of the agency disclosure requirement. These moments occur later in the transaction process and would not fulfill the goal of informing clients during early interactions, potentially leading to misunderstandings about the agent's obligations.