Why Am I Being Asked to Sign a Buyer Brokerage Agreement?

If you’re a homebuyer working with a REALTOR®, you’re working with a professional ethically obligated to act in your best interest. As of August 17, 2024, you’ll be asked to sign a written buyer agreement once you’ve chosen the professional you want to work with.

At first, it may feel like “just another form,” but the truth is, this agreement is designed to give you clarity, transparency, and peace of mind from the very beginning of your home search.

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What Is a Buyer Brokerage Agreement?

A Buyer Brokerage Agreement is a written agreement between you and your real estate professional. It outlines:

• The services your REALTOR® will provide.

• The responsibilities you both agree to.

• How compensation will work if you decide to purchase a home.

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Why Am I Being Asked to Sign One Now?

Written buyer agreements became a nationwide requirement in 2024 as part of the National Association of REALTORS®’ settlement related to broker commissions. While many states have used them for years, this requirement is new in some areas, which is why it may feel unfamiliar to buyers today.

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Are These Agreements Negotiable?

Yes! You should feel empowered to negotiate:

• The length of the agreement.

• The specific services you want to receive.

• The compensation, if any (In the written agreement, compensation must be clearly defined, such as $0, a flat fee, a percentage, or an hourly rate, and not left open-ended. Compensation between you and your real estate professional is negotiable and not set by law.)

Nothing is “one size fits all.” The agreement should reflect what you and your REALTOR® have actually discussed and agreed to.

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Do I Have to Pay Out of Pocket?

Not necessarily. While the agreement outlines how your REALTOR® will be compensated, that doesn’t automatically mean the cost comes directly from you. You can still request, negotiate for, and receive compensation for your REALTOR® from the seller or their agent.

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When Do I Need to Sign?

You’ll be asked to enter into a written buyer agreement before touring homes with your agent,  whether in person or virtually.

If you’re simply visiting an open house on your own or just asking an agent about their services, you don’t need to sign anything at that point.

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How Does This Benefit Me?

These agreements provide:

• Clarity — you know exactly what services to expect.

• Transparency — you understand how compensation works up front.

• Confidence — your REALTOR® is fully committed to your success.

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The Bottom Line

The Buyer Brokerage Agreement isn’t designed to add stress; it’s meant to protect you by setting clear expectations from the start.

📌 Want to learn more? I’ll be hosting a First-Time Homebuyer Seminar in October 2025! Stay tuned for details, or reach out directly for a one-on-one consultation. I’d be happy to walk you through how this agreement works here in Florida and what it means for your home search.