Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services (DORTS): The Ultimate Guide

by Richard Morrison
March 6, 2020
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Buying or selling a home can be an exciting yet stressful time. As a buyer or seller in British Columbia, it’s important to understand your rights and options for representation when engaging in real estate transactions. This is where the Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services – commonly known as the DORTS form – comes into play.

This ultimate guide will provide an in-depth look at everything you need to know about DORTS – from what it is and why it matters, to how it benefits clients and protects them throughout the home buying/selling process.

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Key Takeaway

The DORTS form provides transparency between real estate agents and clients in BC, outlining legal duties and representation options to ensure informed consent throughout the buying/selling process. Signing it binds the agent while protecting the client.

What Exactly is the DORTS Form?

The DORTS form, mandated by the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA), explains the legal obligations and types of representation available when working with a real estate professional. It provides transparency between agents and clients regarding:

Duty of loyalty
Avoiding conflicts of interest
Disclosure requirements
Maintaining confidentiality
Service competency

By signing a DORTS form, clients formally acknowledge their understanding of these key factors affecting the agent-client relationship.

Why is Understanding DORTS So Important?

Ensures informed consent – The DORTS form ensures clients understand their rights, representation options, and the agent’s duties before proceeding. This empowers clients to make fully-informed decisions.
Helps avoid conflicts of interest – DORTS minimizes conflicts by requiring full disclosure from agents regarding prior/potential involvement in a transaction.
Outlines expectations clearly – DORTS sets clear expectations upfront regarding legal obligations owed between agents and clients. This prevents confusion down the line.
Provides client protection – DORTS gives clients recourse if an agent breaches their fiduciary duty. Disciplinary action can be taken through BCFSA.
Builds trust – Full transparency from agents when explaining DORTS helps build rapport and trust with clients.

When is a DORTS Form Required?

A DORTS form must be signed in the following situations:

Starting a new client relationship

Before providing advice or discussing confidential information with potential clients, agents must explain representation options outlined in DORTS and have the form signed.

Buying or selling a property

A DORTS form must be signed upon agreeing to work with an agent when buying or selling real estate in BC.

Changes in representation

If an agent’s relationship to a client changes, an updated DORTS reflecting this must be signed.

What to Expect as a Client with DORTS

Duty of loyalty – Your agent must put your interests first, even above their own interests or those of other clients.

Avoiding conflicts – Your agent cannot act in any way that could compromise their duty of loyalty to you.

Full disclosure – Your agent must disclose all known details that could impact your decisions regarding a transaction.

Confidentiality – Your agent must keep private information confidential, during and after your relationship.

Competent service – Your agent must provide services they are appropriately trained and licensed for.

Representation Options Outlined in DORTS

The DORTS form educates clients on the types of representation available when working with a real estate professional:

Sole agency (buyer or seller)

The agent represents only you throughout the transaction. This is the most common type of representation.

Limited dual agency

The agent represents both buyer and seller in the same transaction, but owes limited duties to each due to inherent conflicts.

Unrepresented

You do not formally establish an agency relationship with the agent and they owe you no special legal duties.

How to Confirm Representation

Before receiving advice from an agent, they must provide a DORTS form and explain it. You then have the option to sign confirming you received this information.

The agent must submit the signed DORTS to their brokerage for auditing purposes. If you decline representation, they may also need to provide a “Disclosure of Risks to Unrepresented Parties” form.

The Benefits of Signing a DORTS as a Client

You understand exactly what to expect from your agent regarding duties owed
Your interests are legally protected throughout the buying/selling process
Your private information remains confidential during and after the transaction
You avoid potential conflicts of interest with the agent
Issues can be addressed through disciplinary action if the agent breaches their duty

Why DORTS Replaced the Working with a Realtor (WWR) Form

The DORTS form replaced the previous WWR document after changes to real estate regulation in BC in 2018. Reasons included:

Increase transparency between agents and consumers
Enhance consumer protection through improved oversight
Restore public trust in light of high-profile misconduct controversies
Respond to surging real estate prices partly blamed on lack of regulation

The new BCFSA regulator now oversees DORTS compliance instead of the industry self-regulating.

Key Differences Between WWR and DORTS

While the WWR outlined some similar principles, DORTS provides more comprehensive upfront disclosure:

Working with a Realtor (WWR)	Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services (DORTS)
Basic outline of services	Details all legal duties and obligations owed by agent
Limited consumer protections	Expands transparency and consumer protections
Industry self-regulation	Overseen by BCFSA regulator
Voluntary for agents	Mandatory for licensees

Common DORTS Misconceptions

Some buyers and sellers are confused about aspects of DORTS:

Myth: Dual agency representation is allowed

Fact: Dual agency is strictly prohibited for most transactions in BC. Limited dual agency may be permitted if disclosed upfront.

Myth: Only listing agents require DORTS

Fact: Buyer’s agents must also have clients sign before providing services.

Myth: DORTS is optional for clients

Fact: Signing a DORTS is legally required to establish representation with an agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is disclosure of representation in trading services?

A: Disclosure of representation in trading services is when a licensed real estate professional provides full disclosure of information related to their duties and responsibilities in representing the interests of their clients looking to buy or sell real estate.

Q: What does representation in trading services mean?

A: Representation in trading services means that a licensed real estate professional has a duty to act in the best interests of their clients when providing real estate services. It includes negotiation, disclosure, and advice on all matters related to your real estate needs.

Q: When must I sign the Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services form?

A: You must sign the Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services form before you enter into any negotiations or discussions with a broker or realtor about buying or selling property.

Q: Is dual agency legal in Vancouver, British Columbia?

A: Yes, dual agency is permitted in Vancouver, British Columbia under certain conditions. All parties must provide informed consent prior to entering into a dual agency agreement.

Q: Who regulates representation in trading services?

A: Representation in trading services is regulated by the Real Estate Council of British Columbia (RECBC) as well as the BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA). All licensed real estate professionals must adhere to these regulations.

Q: What are some important points outlined by the disclosure form for buyer/home buyers?

A: The Disclosure of Representation in Trading Services Form outlines four legal obligations that Realtors are required to provide when dealing with clients. These include full disclosure of information related to their duties and responsibilities; acting solely for the benefit of their client; negotiating the best possible outcome for their client; and providing written confirmation of any agreements made between them and their client.

Q: Does Vancouver have specific rules regarding representation in trading services?

A: Yes, In Vancouver, if an agent represents both buyer and seller they must provide full disclosure including all terms and conditions that may affect either party’s decision-making process. Furthermore, if an agent represents one party they can not also represent another party without written consent from all parties involved.

Q: Is it mandatory for me to sign a document outlining my client-realtor relationship?

A: Yes, it is mandatory for all parties involved to sign a document outlining the client-realtor relationship before engaging in any transactions. This document outlines each person’s rights and responsibilities within this relationship.

Q: What does it mean when I owe my client’s duties and responsibilities outlined by RECBC?

A : It means that Realtors are required by law to act ethically and responsibly when providing real estate services. RECBC has established four legal obligations which Realtors must adhere to at all times including full disclosure of information related to their duties and responsibilities; acting solely for the benefit of their clients; negotiating the best possible outcome for their clients; and providing written confirmation of any agreements made between them and their clients.

Q : How will changes mandated by BC Government affect representation in trading services starting January 2023 ?

A : Starting January 2023 , changes mandated by BC Government will require Realtors to provide even more detailed information on designated agent relationships , dual agency agreements , conflict resolution protocols , etc . Additionally , brokers will be required to provide more detailed information regarding contractual arrangements with buyers / sellers . As well , buyers will be provided with more detailed representations from agents prior to signing documents such as contracts .

Q : What should home buyers consider when selecting an agent ?

A : Home buyers should consider an agent ‘s experience level , knowledge base, communication style , negotiation skills, ability to understand market trends , understanding of local real estate laws , as well as any other factors that could impact how successful they may be during negotiations . Additionally , it is important for home buyers to ensure they are comfortable working with an agent before signing an agreement.

Conclusion

The DORTS form provides you as a real estate consumer with transparency and protection during one of the biggest financial transactions of your life – buying or selling a home.

Take the time to carefully read and understand the DORTS provided by your agent. Ask any questions you may have before signing it.

Understanding your rights and your agent’s duties as outlined in DORTS leads to successful agent-client relationships built on trust and informed consent.

Sources:

https://www.bcfsa.ca/media/3108/download

https://www.rebgv.org/content/rebgv-org/news-archive/what_s-the-disclosure-form-that-realtors–are-asking-you-to-sign.html

Ready to turn your real estate dreams into reality? Contact Richard Morrison, Vancouver’s top realtor with 20+ years of experience. As a Medallion Club member and RE/MAX Hall of Fame award winning agent, he’s the expert you need on your side. Whether buying, selling, or investing, Richard’s personalized approach and deep market insights ensure a successful transaction. Reach out to Richard today at (778) 900-2235 and make your real estate journey seamless and rewarding.

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