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A Buyer Representation Agreement is a legal contract between you and a real estate agent that makes them your official representative when buying property. This agreement spells out how your agent will help you search for and purchase a home, including their specific duties and the length of time they'll work with you.

The agreement protects both sides by clearly defining the relationship and compensation terms. Your agent commits to representing your interests exclusively, showing you suitable properties, and negotiating on your behalf. In return, you typically agree to work solely with that agent and ensure they receive their commission when you buy a home during the contract period.

Sign a Buyer Representation Agreement when you're ready to seriously search for a home and have found a real estate agent you trust. The ideal time is after meeting with several agents but before starting intensive property tours or making offers. This timing ensures you have professional guidance from the start of your serious house hunt.

Many agents request this agreement during your first or second meeting once you've discussed your needs and budget. Getting it signed early protects your interests by securing dedicated representation and clarifies everyone's responsibilities. It also gives your agent confidence to invest significant time in your search, knowing you're committed to working together.

• Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement: Commits you to work with only one agent for a set time period, typically offering the strongest protection for both parties
• Non-Exclusive Agreement: Lets you work with multiple agents but still guarantees commission to the agent who finds your chosen property
• One-Time Showing Agreement: Covers just a single property viewing, useful when exploring options with different agents
• Limited Representation Agreement: Restricts the agent's services to specific tasks or properties, common in commercial transactions
• Open Buyer Agency Agreement: Allows either party to terminate at any time, offering maximum flexibility but less security

• Home Buyers: Sign the agreement as clients, committing to work with their chosen agent during their property search
• Real Estate Agents: Draft and present the agreement, outlining their services and commission structure
• Real Estate Brokerages: Provide the agreement template and oversee their agents' compliance with its terms
• Real Estate Attorneys: Review and modify agreements to protect their clients' interests and ensure legal compliance
• State Real Estate Commissions: Regulate the content and enforcement of these agreements within their jurisdictions

• Property Criteria: List your target price range, preferred locations, and essential home features
• Timeline Details: Determine how long you want the agreement to last, typically 3-6 months
• Agent Services: Outline specific services expected, from property searches to negotiation support
• Commission Structure: Clarify the agent's compensation and any conditions for payment
• Exclusivity Terms: Decide if you want to work exclusively with one agent or keep options open
• Termination Rights: Define conditions under which either party can end the agreement early

• Party Information: Full legal names and contact details of both buyer and real estate agent/brokerage
• Property Specifications: Description of desired property type, location, and price range
• Duration Terms: Clear start and end dates for the representation period
• Compensation Structure: Detailed breakdown of commission rates and payment terms
• Agent Duties: Specific services and obligations the agent will provide
• Exclusivity Terms: Rights and limitations regarding working with other agents
• Termination Clause: Conditions and process for ending the agreement
• Signatures: Dated signatures from all parties, with witness requirements if applicable

A Buyer Representation Agreement differs significantly from an Agency Agreement in several key aspects, though both involve professional representation. While a Buyer Representation Agreement specifically focuses on real estate purchases, an Agency Agreement covers a broader range of business relationships and services.

• Scope of Services: Buyer Representation Agreements exclusively cover home-buying activities, while Agency Agreements can apply to any business relationship where one party acts on behalf of another
• Duration: Buyer agreements typically last 3-6 months for a specific property search, whereas Agency Agreements often have longer or ongoing terms
• Compensation Structure: Buyer agreements usually specify commission based on the property purchase price, while Agency Agreements may include various fee structures
• Legal Obligations: Buyer agreements include specific real estate duties like property showings and offer negotiations, while Agency Agreements outline broader fiduciary responsibilities