The real question is why would you NOT want to sign a contract with a real estate professional? Truth is, your agent will be working on your behalf for one of the largest money decisions of your life! North Carolina has had Buyer Representation through Buyer Agency for years. Traditionally, the Buyer’s Agent has been paid by the seller of the home you are purchasing, i.e. reflected in the list price of the home. With a recent National Association of Realtors® nationwide lawsuit, NC real estate professionals must review what Buyer Agency is, and how they will get paid for this Agency, with every potential homebuyer BEFORE showing them a home, in person or virtually.
While this contract may make some buyers uneasy, it is actually a very good thing; see the National Association of Realtors® CONSUMER GUIDE: WHY AM I BEING ASKED TO SIGN A WRITTEN BUYER AGREEMENT? HERE.
In addition, for guidance on how your Buyer’s Agent commissions can be negotiated see the National Association of Realtors® CONSUMER GUIDE: NEGOTIATING WRITTEN BUYER AGREEMENTS, HERE.
If you are uncomfortable committing to an agent before you both get to know each other (we want to get to know you as well!)…You can request the agent to only name the particular property you are wanting to view in your Agency Agreement and/or set a specific time limit of how long your agency will last. As your Agent, we are going to get to work right away investigating the property, gathering data, scheduling the showing, looking at comparables, and more!
See the National Association of Realtors Consumer Guide below, and of course let us know how the FRONT PORCH REALTY Professionals can help you with your dream home purchase!