Glossary

Fiduciary

Someone legally obligated to act in your best interest ahead of their own — a higher standard than a salesperson. The key test for any advisor.

A fiduciary must put your interests first, regardless of the effect on their own compensation. Fee-only financial advisors, CPAs you hire, HUD-approved counselors, and your own attorney are fiduciaries. By contrast, a real estate agent owes fiduciary duties to their client — but if the buyer's agent is also giving you advice, they're working for the buyer. Always know who has the fiduciary obligation to you.

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