A buyer’s agent is a licensed real estate professional who exclusively represents the interests of the homebuyer in a real estate transaction, guiding them through the entire process from property search to closing. Their core purpose is to advocate for the buyer, help identify suitable homes, negotiate the best price and terms, and ensure a smooth, compliant transaction.
Buyers benefit from a dedicated agent because they:
A buyer’s agent begins by understanding your needs—location, size, amenities and price range—and taps into the MLS plus off-market networks to generate a curated list of homes that match your criteria.
Agents advise on offer price, contingencies and escalation clauses, then prepare and submit a legally compliant purchase agreement designed to stand out in competitive markets without overpaying.
Once your offer is accepted, your agent schedules home inspections, reviews appraisal reports, negotiates repair requests or credits, and manages any additional due-diligence steps to protect your interests.
Your agent explains all paperwork—from earnest money deposits to title documents—coordinates with lenders, escrow officers and attorneys, and ensures you meet every deadline for a smooth closing.
In most markets the seller covers commission, which is split between the listing agent and buyer’s agent. Typical total commissions range from 5% to 6% of the sale price, with the buyer’s agent earning half of that amount.
If you’re buying a FSBO property or working with a discount brokerage, you can often negotiate a reduced buyer’s agent fee or a flat rate upfront.
When a seller offers no buyer-agent commission, you may need to pay your agent directly or renegotiate terms. A transparent discussion about fee structure is crucial before you sign any representation agreement.
Buyer’s agents have full MLS access and local networks that reveal properties before they hit public portals, giving you a competitive edge.
With market data and negotiation tactics, your agent can structure offers that maximize seller appeal while protecting your budget and contingencies.
As your fiduciary, a buyer’s agent must act in your best interest, maintain confidentiality and disclose all material facts about the property and transaction.
Coordinating inspections, timelines and paperwork can be overwhelming. A buyer’s agent manages these details to prevent missed deadlines or legal pitfalls.
A listing agent represents the seller, advises on pricing and marketing strategy, negotiates offers on behalf of the seller, and manages seller disclosures.
In dual agency, one agent represents both buyer and seller, which limits advocacy for either side. Transaction brokers offer limited representation, facilitating paperwork but not providing fiduciary loyalty.
Contracts range from non-exclusive agreements—where you can work with multiple agents—to exclusive right-to-represent agreements that legally bind you to one agent.
Exclusive agreements often yield stronger agent commitment and better service, while non-exclusive gives you flexibility at the cost of divided agent attention.
Verify state licensing, read online reviews, request recent sales data and confirm local market expertise.
Purchasing directly from the owner can save on commission but requires you to manage negotiations, disclosures and closing logistics yourself.
These services offer limited support—often online tools and minimal agent involvement—for a reduced, upfront fee.
While you may pay lower commission, you risk conflicts of interest since the listing agent’s primary duty is to the seller.
Yes. Seller-paid commissions are typically factored into the listing price, so buyers indirectly cover the cost.
Yes, but review your representation agreement to understand any notice requirements or penalties before making a change.
Generally no, unless the seller offers no commission or you agree to a separate fee structure up front.
Market analysis, property tours, offer preparation, negotiation, due-diligence coordination and guidance through closing.
