The Consumer Relationship Guide in Alberta: Protecting Your Interests in Real Estate
- Mike Sarnecki
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 9
When you’re buying or selling property in Alberta, one of the first documents you’ll encounter is the Consumer Relationship Guide. As a licensed REALTOR®, I take this guide seriously because it defines exactly how I can work with you and, more importantly, how I can protect your best interests.
What Is the Consumer Relationship Guide?
The Consumer Relationship Guide, created by the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA), is a required disclosure that ensures you understand the type of working relationship you’re entering into. It outlines three clear options:
Common Law Agency (Brokerage Representation) – The entire brokerage represents you and owes you fiduciary duties like loyalty, confidentiality, and full disclosure.
Designated Agency (Agent Representation) – You work directly with me as your designated agent, and I represent only you, even if other agents in my office are working with the other side.
Customer Relationship (No Agency) – You represent yourself. I can provide general information and help with forms, but I don’t advocate for you.
The guide also explains what happens if one agent or brokerage is involved on both sides of a transaction, so there’s no confusion about where loyalties lie.
Why It Matters
Choosing the right relationship isn’t about paperwork—it’s about protection. The type of relationship you select determines how much advocacy and legal obligation I provide.
As a client, you receive full representation and protection.
With designated agency, you know I’m focused solely on your interests.
As a customer, you’re essentially on your own.
My recommendation? Always choose a client relationship. It gives you peace of mind knowing your REALTOR® is legally obligated to put your needs first.
Let’s Walk Through It Together
I never rush through the Consumer Relationship Guide. When you work with me, I’ll walk you through each option, answer your questions, and make sure you’re completely confident before we move forward. Real estate is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—you deserve to have the right protections in place from the very beginning.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re planning to buy or sell in Alberta, let’s review the Consumer Relationship Guide together so you know exactly where you stand. With clarity from the start, you can move forward with confidence.
📞 Call me today to set up a meeting, and let’s make your real estate goals a reality.
Mike Sarnecki, REALTOR®
Royal Lepage ArTeam Realty
P +1-780-264-5259 E mike.sarnecki@royallepage.ca
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