Which of the following best describes the type of care required in an agency relationship according to Virginia law?

In Virginia, the relationship between a real estate agent and their client is built on a foundation of trust and responsibility. The law stipulates that agents must exercise "ordinary care" in their duties. This standard means that agents are expected to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would show in a similar situation.

Ordinary care encompasses a range of responsibilities, including being thorough in transactions, advising clients of potential risks, and ensuring that all actions taken on behalf of the client are in their best interest. This requirement protects clients by ensuring that agents maintain a proactive and diligent approach rather than a passive one.

While higher standards like "deliberate care" or niche levels like "specialist care" may seem appealing, they are not representative of general agency responsibilities in Virginia. Additionally, the concept of "minimal care" falls short of the expectations set forth by agency law, as it implies a lack of attentiveness that could ultimately harm the client's interests. Thus, "ordinary care" is the appropriate standard that agents are held to in Virginia, balancing diligence and practicality in client representation.