What your agent does, and how agreements work

How Buyer Representation Works

Buyers often ask what a buyer agent actually does and how the agent gets paid. Rules changed nationally in 2024, so here is a plain explanation. This is general information; your written agreement controls the details.

What a buyer agent does

Helps you define your search and sets up MLS alerts
Schedules and attends showings
Shares what we know about each home, area and street
Pulls comparable sales to help you decide what to offer
Writes and negotiates your offer and any repair requests
Coordinates with your lender, inspector and closing agent
Keeps your deadlines on track through closing

Written buyer agreements

Since August 17, 2024, agents who participate in an MLS and work with a buyer must have a written agreement with that buyer before touring a home, whether in person or by live video, according to the National Association of REALTORS. The agreement must state the compensation clearly and say that commissions are negotiable and not set by law.

How compensation works

Compensation is negotiable between you and your agent and is written into the agreement. In some sales, the seller may offer to pay some or all of the buyer agent's compensation or offer concessions toward your costs. We can also request that in an offer. I will walk you through the options before you sign anything, so there are no surprises.

Questions to ask any agent

How long does the agreement last, and how can it end?
Does it cover one home, an area, or all homes?
What is the compensation, and who may pay it?
How will we communicate, and how quickly do you respond?

Working with Matt Sargent

I am Matt Sargent, a Tennessee licensed affiliate broker with Keller Williams. Each Keller Williams office is independently owned and operated. I work with buyers in Manchester and across Coffee County, and I keep the process clear: you will know what happens next and what it costs before you commit.

Next steps

Request my buyer guide below and tell me about your plans. We can talk through the agreement and your search together. You may also like the step by step buying guide and first time buyer help.

Common questions

Do I have to sign an agreement to work with a buyer agent?

If the agent participates in an MLS, a written buyer agreement is required before touring homes, effective August 17, 2024.

Are buyer agent commissions set by law?

No. Compensation is negotiable and is stated in your written agreement.

Can the seller pay my agent?

Sometimes. A seller may offer to pay some or all of the buyer agent compensation, or it can be requested in your offer.

Matt Sargent is a Tennessee licensed affiliate broker with Keller Williams who helps buyers and sellers in Manchester and Coffee County. Call (615) 497 1658 or send a message.