In an agency relationship, who is typically considered the client?

In an agency relationship, the client is typically the seller. In auction scenarios, the auctioneer often represents the seller, facilitating the sale of the seller's property or goods. The seller grants the auctioneer the authority to act on their behalf, making decisions regarding the auction process. This includes setting starting bids, marketing the items, and conducting the auction, all aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for the seller.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in the auction industry, as it defines the obligations of the auctioneer to the seller, including duties such as loyalty, full disclosure, and acting in the best interests of the seller. The auctioneer does not have a fiduciary duty to the buyer or any third parties involved, which underscores the importance of recognizing who the client is in this context. Thus, acknowledging the seller as the client helps clarify the roles and responsibilities within the auction process.