What Is a Buyer’s Agent in Real Estate?
A buyer’s agent (also called a buyer’s broker) is a licensed real-estate professional who represents the interests of a buyer during a property purchase. Their job is to help buyers find homes, prepare offers, and negotiate favorable terms while ensuring legal and contractual compliance.
💡 How a Buyer’s Agent Works
The buyer’s agent represents the buyer exclusively—unlike a listing agent, who represents the seller. They identify suitable homes, arrange showings, and prepare purchase offers that protect the buyer’s interests. Most buyer’s agents are paid a commission once the property closes, traditionally through the listing broker’s offer of compensation.
💰 How Buyer’s Agents Are Paid After the NAR Settlement
Following the NAR settlement, commissions and buyer’s agent compensation (BAC) are no longer displayed within the MLS. Buyers now negotiate directly with their agent for compensation terms. To learn how payment works today, see Who Pays the Buyer’s Agent After the NAR Settlement?
🏡 Why This Matters for FSBO Sellers
For FSBO sellers using Brokerless, understanding how buyer’s agents work is essential. Some buyers are represented by agents who expect commission offers. You can choose whether to offer compensation or sell directly without paying agent fees. Learn more in Should FSBO Sellers Offer a Buyer’s Agent Commission?
📚 Related Reading
❓ FAQs About Buyer’s Agents
What does a buyer’s agent do for homebuyers?
They guide clients through the process—searching listings, scheduling showings, preparing offers, and negotiating with sellers to ensure fair purchase terms.
Is a buyer’s agent the same as a Realtor?
Not always. A buyer’s agent is any licensed agent representing the buyer; a Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) who follows its ethics code.
Do I have to pay a buyer’s agent if I sell FSBO?
No. FSBO sellers can decide whether to offer commission to a buyer’s agent or work directly with buyers through a flat-fee MLS service like Brokerless.