If you’ve started looking at homes recently, you may have noticed something new: before stepping inside a property, buyers are now asked to sign a buyer’s agency contract. For many, this can feel intimidating — especially if you’re not sure what it means or if you’re ready to commit. At Bay Realty Michigan, we get it. We honestly hate contracts too. But as licensed real estate professionals, we are required to have them in place. The good news is, we make the process simple, flexible, and comfortable.
Recent updates in real estate practices now require buyer agency agreements before a showing. This ensures that you, the buyer, are represented and protected when touring properties. It also makes clear who is working on your behalf and prevents any confusion about whose interests the agent represents.
With many brokerages, you may be asked to sign a long-term contract right away. At Bay Realty Michigan, we believe you should get to know us first. That’s why we offer a one-day agreement that applies only to the property (or properties) you are viewing that day. After meeting us, if you feel comfortable and would like us to represent you through the entire transaction, we can then sign a longer agreement together. Until then, you’re never locked in.
It’s important to understand the difference between a listing agent and a buyer’s agent.
Example: Imagine you call the phone number on a “For Sale” sign because you want to see the home. The person you reach is the listing agent. That agent has a legal contract with the seller, and their job is to get the best price and terms for the seller. So, if you say during a showing, “We’d love to make an offer, but we’d like the seller to cover some of our closing costs,” the listing agent is obligated to tell the seller everything you said. Their duty is to use that information to the seller’s advantage — not yours.
This doesn’t mean the listing agent is dishonest or working against buyers. It simply means their loyalty, by law, is to the seller who hired them. That’s why having a buyer’s agent is so important: your agent’s loyalty is to you.
Representation: Your agent is legally obligated to put your interests first.
Negotiation Power: A buyer’s agent works to get you the best price and terms possible.
Market Knowledge: We know the local market, neighborhoods, and pricing trends, which helps you make informed decisions.
Access to Homes: Agents can schedule showings, provide property details, and alert you to new listings quickly.
Guidance Through the Process: From writing offers to inspections and closing, your agent helps navigate every step.
We may hate contracts, but we also know they protect both buyers and agents. Signing a buyer’s agency contract doesn’t need to be scary. With Bay Realty Michigan, it’s simply a way to protect you while you tour homes. We keep the commitment small — just for the properties you’re seeing — and give you the freedom to decide if we’re the right fit for you moving forward.
Ready to start your search? Let’s schedule a showing and walk you through the process with confidence and ease.
📞 Call us today: 989-385-1311 | 248-838-8564
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