Which responsibility focuses on the agent’s duty to act in the principal's interests?

The responsibility that emphasizes the agent’s duty to act in the principal's interests is loyalty. Loyalty refers to the obligation the agent has to prioritize the principal’s interests above their own or those of others. This fiduciary duty ensures that the agent is committed to supporting the principal’s objectives, maintaining confidentiality, and avoiding conflicts of interest that might harm the principal’s interests.

In the context of agency relationships, loyalty is fundamental because it creates trust and aligns the agent's actions with the principal's goals, which is crucial for making informed decisions in real estate transactions. By embodying loyalty, the agent helps ensure that the principal's needs and desires are met, fostering a strong professional relationship.

The other responsibilities, such as care, obedience, and disclosure, each play important roles in the agent-principal relationship, focusing on different aspects of the agent’s obligations. While care relates to the skillful handling of the transaction and obedience refers to following the lawful instructions of the principal, loyalty specifically mandates that the agent's actions must reflect the principal's best interests above all else.