Which fiduciary duty ensures agents act in the client’s best interest?

The fiduciary duty that ensures agents act in the client’s best interest is loyalty. This duty compels real estate agents to prioritize the interests of their clients above their own. Loyalty involves a commitment to advocate for the client’s needs and desires throughout the transaction process, which is fundamental in fostering trust and maintaining a professional relationship. This means that an agent must avoid situations where their personal interests could conflict with those of the client.

Obedience, while important, focuses on following the lawful instructions of the client rather than prioritizing their best interests. Accountability involves accurately managing and reporting the client’s funds and property, ensuring transparency in financial matters, but doesn't inherently dictate a prioritization of the client's interest over the agent's. Reasonable care is about performing professional duties with the level of competency expected in the industry, ensuring that the agent acts prudently and responsibly. Each of these duties is significant in its own right, but it is loyalty that directly assures the client that their best interests are at the forefront of the agent’s actions.