Let’s talk about something you’ll probably hear about pretty early in your home-buying journey: the Buyer Agency Agreement.
If you’re getting ready to buy a home, your Realtor will likely sit down with you and go over this agreement before you start touring homes together.
And if you’ve never bought a home before, you might be thinking…
“Wait…what exactly am I signing?”
Totally fair question. Let’s break it down without all the complicated legal language.
So, what is a Buyer Agency Agreement?
A Buyer Agency Agreement is an agreement between you and your buyer’s agent that explains how the agent will work with you and represent you during your home search.
In Nebraska, you may come across an Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement or a Restrictive Buyer Agency Agreement, depending on your situation.
A Restrictive Buyer Agency Agreement may be used when you are working with an agent for a specific property or a limited situation.
An Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement is generally used when you are choosing an agent to work with you throughout your home search.
The specific agreement that makes sense for you can depend on your circumstances, so this is something your Realtor should explain before you sign.
“Is this agreement for me or for my Realtor?”
Both!
The agreement is designed to clearly lay out the expectations between you and your agent so everyone understands how the relationship will work from the beginning.
Think of it as getting on the same page before you start the house-hunting adventure.
It helps answer questions like:
Who is representing me?
What can I expect from my Realtor?
How long will we be working together?
How will my Realtor be compensated?
Having these conversations upfront can prevent confusion later and gives you the opportunity to ask questions before you ever start touring homes.
So…what does the agreement actually cover?
While the exact language depends on the agreement, it generally addresses things such as:
🏡 Representation – Who your agent represents and the nature of that relationship.
🤝 Your agent’s responsibilities – The services and duties your agent agrees to provide.
📅 The timeframe – When the agreement begins and when it ends. In some situations, it can be extended.
💰 Compensation – How your agent will be compensated for their services.
The compensation section is especially important to understand.
It can address whether your buyer’s agent may receive compensation from the seller or seller’s agent, and what happens if that compensation does not cover the amount agreed upon between you and your agent.
The agreement also establishes the maximum compensation your agent can receive under that agreement.
This is why it’s important to actually read it and understand what you’re signing.
And don't worry—you aren't expected to sit down with this document and figure it all out by yourself!
Your Realtor should walk through the agreement with you, explain the different sections, and give you the opportunity to ask questions before you sign.
One of the biggest things I want buyers to know…
You should feel comfortable asking questions.
If there is something in the agreement you don't understand, ask.
If you aren't sure how compensation works, ask.
If you're wondering what happens if you decide you don't want to continue working with an agent, ask.
There are no “dumb” questions when you're making one of the biggest purchases of your life.
And honestly, communication is one of the most important parts of the relationship between a buyer and their Realtor.
You want an agent who will explain things instead of making you feel like you should already know them.
Someone who will take the time to walk through the paperwork with you.
Someone you feel comfortable calling when you have a question—even if you think it's a silly one.
Because buying a home is already a BIG process. You shouldn't have to feel like you're navigating it alone.
Before you sign…
Take the time to review your specific Buyer Agency Agreement with your Realtor and make sure you understand what you're agreeing to.
The goal isn't just to get a signature on a piece of paper.
The goal is for you and your agent to start your home-buying journey on the same page.
And if you're just getting ready to start your home search, I'd love to help make the process feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more exciting.
From figuring out what you actually need in a home, to touring properties, negotiating an offer, and eventually getting those keys in your hand—I’m here to help guide you through it.
Ready to start looking for “the one”?
Let’s connect! I’d love to be your buyer’s agent. 🏡❤️
Kelsey Musich | Realtor®
Summit Real Estate | Equal Housing Opportunity
