In real estate, in US, we call this "dual representation". Not the best way to go for either party, but the broker is supposed to make it clear that he does not represent either party and can't divulge info to either party to the detriment of the other. In theory, he is to act as a go between only.

Recently, as buyer representation became more popular, the establishment created a high bred legal framework where the agency, broker, can assign one agent to represent one party (seller) and another agent to represent the other (buyer). This way they can still make money on both sides of the transaction.

The best arrangement is to have a different firm represent each client but most buyers / sellers are not aware of this, or even that they have the right to insist on this.

BK