Final answer:
An agent would be representing a customer in a real estate purchase when they act as the buyer's agent, the seller's agent, or as a dual agent (representing both buyer and seller). Being a dual agent may present a conflict of interest and is regulated by law.
Step-by-step explanation:
The agent would be representing a customer in a real estate purchase in the following situations:
- a) The agent is representing the buyer: In this case, the agent is working on behalf of the buyer to find a property that meets the buyer's needs and negotiates the best possible terms and price.
- b) The agent is representing the seller: Here, the agent represents the seller's interests, aiming to sell the property at the highest price and on favorable terms.
- c) The agent is a dual agent: A dual agent represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. This scenario can present a conflict of interest, but it's allowable in some locations under specific conditions.
Note that option d) 'The agent is representing both parties' is essentially the same as being a dual agent, but the term dual agency specifically refers to the legal relationship that is regulated by real estate law.