The Buyer Agreement, Explained
What a Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA) is, why we sign one, and what's inside.
Buyer Broker Agreement
What Is a BBA?
A Buyer Broker Agreement is a written agreement between you and my brokerage, Keller Williams Advisors Realty, that spells out how I'll represent you, for how long, and how I'm paid. Since August 2024, buyers sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes, so everyone is clear on the terms from day one.
How Long It Lasts
The agreement has a start and end date that we choose together (180 days if left blank). If you're under contract when it ends, it simply extends until that purchase closes or falls through. It can be ended early by mutual written agreement.
Working Together Exclusively
During the term, I'm your agent. When you visit an open house, a builder's model home, or a for-sale-by-owner, just let them know you're working with me — and send any questions about homes my way.
What I Do for You
- Help you find and evaluate homes that fit your criteria
- Negotiate and write offers on your behalf
- Be loyal to your interests and keep your information confidential
- Disclose material facts I know about
- Present every offer and counteroffer promptly
How Compensation Works
Agent fees are not set by law and are fully negotiable. The agreement states the amount we agree on. That fee may be paid by the seller, by you, or split — and anything the seller or listing broker pays is credited toward it. It's earned when you sign a purchase contract and is typically paid at closing. I can't be paid more than the agreement states.
If a Deal Doesn't Close
If the seller fails to close through no fault of yours, the fee is waived. If a contingency isn't met (like inspection or financing), you're protected. There's also a protection period after the agreement ends for homes you saw with me during the term.
Your Own Research
You're encouraged to do your own homework on things like schools, zoning, noise, crime, and the home's condition. I'll point you to the right inspectors and resources, but those decisions are yours.
Other Buyers
I may work with other buyers too. If two of my clients ever want to offer on the same home, I'll tell you in writing, keep everyone's offers confidential, and you can ask to work with another agent at my brokerage.
Fair Housing & Wire Fraud
Homes are shown without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, or other protected classes. And never wire money without calling to verify instructions first.
Common Questions
Do I have to pay my agent out of pocket?
Not necessarily. Many sellers offer to cover some or all of the buyer's agent fee, and it can also be negotiated as part of your offer. We'll go over the numbers before you sign so you know exactly what to expect.
Why do I need to sign before touring?
Industry rules changed in 2024 to require a written agreement before an agent tours homes with a buyer. It protects you by putting the services and compensation in writing up front.
Can the terms be changed?
Yes. The length, the fee, and other terms are all negotiable before you sign, and changes can be made later in writing if we both agree.
What if I'm not happy with my service?
Tell me — I want to fix it. The agreement can be ended early by mutual written consent.
This page is a plain-English overview to help you feel prepared. It isn't legal, tax, or lending advice, and the actual signed documents always control. Have questions about your situation? Ask me anytime, or talk with a real estate attorney.