Why do I have to sign an agreement with you just to see a home for sale in person?

All REALTORS are now required to have buyers sign a buyer representation agreement before showing any home in the MLS. This agreement outlines our working relationship, your expectations as a buyer, and the services I'll provide to help you find and purchase a home. It protects your interests, ensures clear communication, and establishes agent compensation. We can adjust the terms of the agreement to a shorter time frame or limit the number of homes if you'd like. We can then choose to extend the agreement if we decide it would be beneficial to both of us. 

I can't afford to pay your fee outlined in the agreement. 

We can request the seller pay my fee through the purchase agreement, or include seller concessions in the offer that allow seller funds to be used toward closing costs. We'll make it part of the deal, and I'll be clear in communicating this is required to the listing agent. There are also other strategies with offers (if needed) such as increasing the purchase price slightly if the seller has been unwilling to pay my fee. First, and most important, let's focus on finding the home you want, and then we can go from there.

What if I just go directly to the listing agent to represent me?

The listing agent represents the seller, and their fiduciary duty is to the seller. There is also no guarantee that approach will save you any money - and it may end up costing you even more. Dual agency or unrepresented buyer transactions have much higher chances of ending up in litigation. You want someone in your corner representing you, not the sellers. As your agent, I will look out for your interests, and negotiate for price, terms, concessions, and repairs on your behalf. Remember, I'm only paid a contingency fee if we find a home you love AND purchase.