As of August 1, 2024, homebuyers in Oregon will need to be aware of a significant change in the home buying process. This update now requires a Buyer Broker Agreement, a practice already familiar to some who have bought homes in other states.
What is a Buyer Broker Agreement?
A Buyer Broker Agreement is a formal agreement that establishes a relationship between a homebuyer and a real estate agent. This document outlines the obligations of the agent to the buyer, promoting transparency and setting clear expectations. Before viewing any property, buyers will need to sign this agreement. Traditionally, buyers could simply contact a realtor to schedule a home viewing. With the new requirement, buyers must sign the Buyer Broker Agreement before even stepping foot in a property.
Key Changes to the Agreement
- Agent’s Compensation:
- A critical aspect of the Buyer Broker Agreement is the section detailing the agent’s compensation. Previously, this topic was not widely discussed, leading many buyers to assume agents were only paid upon the purchase of a home. The new agreement brings transparency to this process, clarifying how and when the agent will be compensated. The agreement allows for negotiation of the agent’s fee, which may be covered by the seller or the buyer, depending on the terms agreed upon.
- Terms
- Another in the Buyer Broker Agreement is the flexibility in the terms section. This section allows buyers and agents to negotiate and set a specific duration for their agreement. Whether a buyer wants the agreement to cover just a single property viewing, a weekend, a month, or even up to two years, the terms can be tailored to suit individual needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for buyers who are in the early stages of their search and want to explore different options without committing long-term. It ensures that the agreement aligns with the buyer’s timeline and comfort level, fostering a more personalized and accommodating home buying experience.
Navigating the Changes
These changes underscore the importance of having a knowledgeable and transparent agent who can guide buyers through the new process. The Buyer Broker Agreement will specify the agent’s duties and responsibilities, ensuring that buyers understand what to expect at each step. This document reinforces the trust and fiduciary duty that agents owe to their clients.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Buyer Broker Agreement in Oregon is a step toward greater transparency and protection for both buyers and agents. By clearly outlining the terms of the relationship and the compensation structure, this change aims to make the home buying process smoother and more predictable.
For those looking to buy a home, it is now more important than ever to have a detailed consultation with a real estate professional. This will help ensure that all parties are on the same page and that buyers are fully informed about the new requirements and their implications.