Buyer Agency: What is it and why do I need one in Union County, NC?
Updated: Jan 18, 2025
Why You Should Hire Me as Your Buyer’s Agent: Understanding Buyer Agency and the Benefits of Working with a Professional
When it comes to buying a home, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right real estate agent to guide you through the process. As a buyer, working with a dedicated buyer’s agent can offer you valuable expertise, ensure your interests are prioritized, and make the process smoother. In this blog, I'll explain why hiring me as your buyer’s agent is a smart move and provide insight into buyer agency agreements, including the WWREA and the one-year term agreement, as well as how buyer agents are paid, especially in light of recent commission lawsuits.
What is Buyer Agency?
A buyer’s agent is a real estate professional who represents you, the buyer, during the home-buying process. Unlike a listing agent who represents the seller, I work exclusively for you, ensuring that your needs and interests come first. From finding the right properties to negotiating the best price and managing the paperwork, I am here to guide you every step of the way.
The Benefits of Hiring Me as Your Buyer’s Agent
Expert Guidance Through the Process Buying a home is a complex process that involves legal, financial, and logistical considerations. As an experienced buyer’s agent, I can help you understand market conditions, pinpoint ideal properties, and navigate negotiations. My local knowledge of Union, Stanly, Mecklenburg and Anson Counties gives me the edge in finding properties that match your criteria and budget.
Access to Off-Market Properties Many homes never make it to online listings. With my extensive network and knowledge of the local market, I can give you access to exclusive listings or properties that may not be available to the general public. This can significantly widen your options and increase your chances of finding the perfect home.
Skilled Negotiation on Your Behalf One of the key benefits of hiring me is having an expert negotiator on your side. I’ll help you secure the best deal by negotiating price, repairs, contingencies, and other terms that are favorable to you, all while handling the delicate interactions between you and the seller.
Peace of Mind and Advocacy As your agent, I am committed to protecting your interests. From the moment you decide to work with me, my job is to advocate for you. I ensure you’re not overwhelmed by the process, provide clear explanations, and offer professional advice throughout. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that I’m looking out for you every step of the way.
Understanding the WWREA and Buyer Agency Agreement
When you hire me as your buyer’s agent, we’ll enter into a Buyer Agency Agreement. This agreement establishes our professional relationship and outlines the scope of services I will provide to you. It ensures that you are working with an agent who is fully committed to helping you find the right property.
In North Carolina, the WWREA (Working With Real Estate Agents) form is required by law. It’s a simple, clear document that explains the roles and responsibilities of a real estate agent, both for buyers and sellers. The form ensures that buyers understand that agents can represent either the buyer or the seller and that agents owe fiduciary duties to their clients. This document also ensures full transparency in the relationship.
The One-Year Term of the Buyer Agency Agreement
One of the terms of a typical buyer agency agreement is a set duration for representation, often one year. The one-year term allows ample time for us to work together as you search for the right property. During this time, I’ll be fully dedicated to helping you, from home showings to closing the deal. If you’re unable to find a property within that time frame, we can discuss extending or revising the agreement. Having a set term ensures that you have committed support throughout your search and makes the process more organized and efficient.
How Buyer Agents are Paid After the New Commission Lawsuits
In recent years, changes in commission structures have impacted how real estate agents are compensated, particularly after lawsuits raised questions about commission-sharing practices. Traditionally, the seller paid both the listing agent and the buyer's agent’s commission, often splitting the total commission between the two agents. However, following some legal challenges, this practice has come under scrutiny, and many buyers are now aware that buyer agents' commissions may no longer be automatically offered through the seller's listing.
As a result, it’s now more common for buyer agents to negotiate their fees directly with their clients. While this may mean that buyers will sometimes pay their buyer's agent directly, many buyers are still able to secure a portion of the commission through the seller, depending on the listing agreement. Rest assured, we will always discuss and clarify how compensation works before you sign an agreement, so there are no surprises. I strive to make the process transparent, and I’ll help you understand how commissions are structured in your specific transaction.
Conclusion: Let Me Be Your Trusted Partner
Hiring me as your buyer’s agent means you’ll have an experienced, dedicated professional guiding you through every step of your home-buying journey. The WWREA and Buyer Agency Agreement set clear expectations and ensure that I work exclusively for your benefit. Whether you’re buying your first home or looking for land in Union, Stanly, or Anson Counties, I am committed to providing you with the expertise, resources, and advocacy you need to make the best decisions and secure the home of your dreams. Let me be your trusted partner in this important investment.
Amanda Evans
Broker & REALTOR®
Central Carolina Real Estate Group
770.653.7370
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