What your agent does
A buyer's agent sets up showings, helps you judge a fair price, writes your offer, manages the deadlines in your contract, and negotiates with the seller's side. A good one also tells you when a home isn't worth it.
The seller's agent, the listing agent, works for the seller. Be friendly, but don't tell them your top price or how much you love the house.
How agents are paid
Your buyer agreement states what your agent is paid, often a percentage of the price. Sometimes the seller agrees to pay part or all of it; if they don't, the agreement says whether you pay the rest. The amount and the terms are negotiable.
Because pay usually arrives only when the deal closes, every professional at the table is paid when it closes, not when you get a good deal. Most agents work hard for their clients anyway. It's still worth knowing, and it's why a second, independent read of the home helps.
What to check in the agreement
- The amount, and what happens if the seller pays less than it.
- How long it lasts. You can ask for a shorter term.
- Whether it's exclusive, and for which areas or homes.
- How you can end it if it isn't working.
In Georgia, one real estate firm can represent both you and the seller only if you both agree in writing. That's called dual agency. The firm must still tell both sides about known problems with the home, and it can't share your private information, like the most you'll pay. But because it works for both sides, it can't push hard for either one, and you can say no. Some firms instead assign a separate agent to each side, called designated agency, so your agent works only for you. Ask which one your firm uses.
Dos and don'ts
check_circleDo
- checkTalk to two or three agents before you choose.
- checkRead the whole agreement, and ask to change what you don't like.
- checkAsk how they handle repair requests after the inspection.
- checkAsk for a short term if you're unsure.
cancelDon't
- closeSign an agreement you don't know how to end.
- closeTell the seller's agent your top price.
- closeAssume the agent's pay is fixed or standard.
- closeAgree to dual agency without understanding what you give up.
Questions to ask
An agent, before you sign
- How many first-time buyers have you helped this year?
- After the inspection, do you usually ask for repairs or a credit?
- What does your agreement say about pay, length, and how I can end it?
- Will I work with you, or with someone on your team?
Terms on this page
infoGeneral information based on the standard Georgia REALTORS® purchase contract and public guidance. Your own contract decides: read it, and ask your agent or closing attorney about anything that matters. Not legal or financial advice.