How to Buy a Home

In August 2024, new compensation rules took effect across the real estate industry as part of a National Association of REALTORS® settlement. I want to be completely upfront about what changed and how it affects you — whether you’re buying or selling.

What Changed?

The biggest shift: buyer’s agent compensation can no longer be advertised or offered through the MLS. This changes how buyers and sellers approach agent fees, and it makes transparency more important than ever.

If You’re Buying

• Before touring any homes, you’ll now be asked to sign a written Buyer Representation Agreement specifying what compensation your agent will receive.
• You can still negotiate with a seller to have them cover your agent’s fee — it just happens outside of the MLS now.
• If a seller won’t cover it, you may be responsible for paying your agent’s fee directly.
• I’ll walk you through all of this clearly before we ever step foot in a house together.

If You’re Selling

• You are no longer required to offer compensation to a buyer’s agent.
• That said, offering it can still help attract more buyers and lead to a smoother sale.
• Your listing agent’s commission is still negotiated directly between you and your agent — that hasn’t changed.

How I Handle It

Honestly? I think these changes are a good thing. They put compensation conversations front and center, which means everyone knows exactly what to expect. I’ll always explain my fees clearly, answer every question you have, and make sure you feel fully comfortable before we move forward.

Valuations for sellers are always complimentary. If you have questions, please just ask — there’s no such thing as a silly question.