As of 2025, California law now requires homebuyers to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement before working with a real estate agent. This is part of a broader nationwide effort to increase transparency and protect buyers throughout the real estate process.
So what does this mean for you as a buyer—and why is it actually a good thing?
✅ What Is a Buyer Representation Agreement?
A Buyer Representation Agreement is a contract that formally establishes the working relationship between you (the buyer) and your real estate agent. It outlines the agent’s responsibilities, defines how they’ll be compensated, and confirms that they are working on your behalf—not the seller’s.
While agents have long been able to represent buyers without a signed agreement, California law now requires this agreement be in place before agents can:
- Show you homes privately,
- Provide advice or guidance,
- Or represent you in negotiations.
This legal update creates clarity for everyone involved and ensures buyers understand exactly who’s representing them and how.
🤝 Why This Law Benefits Buyers
The purpose of this law is to protect buyers by clearly defining representation. When you sign a Buyer Representation Agreement, you’re confirming that your agent is working exclusively in your best interest—not in the interest of the seller.
With that representation, you receive:
- A dedicated advocate from start to finish,
- Strong negotiation support on price, terms, credits, and repairs,
- Expert guidance through disclosures, inspections, and closing,
- And full fiduciary duty—meaning your agent is legally obligated to put your needs first.
🚫 What About Just Working with the Listing Agent?
You might wonder: “Why not just go directly to the listing agent?”
The short answer is: the listing agent works for the seller. Their legal duty is to get the highest price and best terms for the seller—not to help you, the buyer.
If you don’t have your own agent, you’re negotiating and making decisions without a professional advocating solely for your side. In such a large financial transaction, that can put you at a major disadvantage.
💼 Professional, Transparent, and Buyer-Focused
Real estate agents invest significant time, effort, and expertise into helping buyers succeed—from researching listings and scheduling tours to writing offers, managing inspections, and guiding the deal through closing.
A signed agreement allows us to fully commit our resources to you, knowing we have a mutual understanding and shared goal. It also ensures transparency in how we’re compensated, oftentimes through a seller-paid credit included in your offer.
At the end of the day, our job is to protect your interests, negotiate fiercely on your behalf, and help you make confident, informed decisions. This law doesn’t create new obligations for you—it simply ensures you receive the highest level of professional service and representation throughout your home-buying journey.
💬 Final Thoughts
This new California law is all about clarity, protection, and empowering buyers. Signing a Buyer Representation Agreement isn’t about pressure—it’s about putting you in the best position possible to succeed.
If you’re thinking about buying a home or have questions about the agreement, we’d be happy to walk you through it. Our goal is to make sure you feel supported and informed every step of the way.