Buying Real Estate in MA

Whether it’s your first time buying real estate in MA or your fifth buying residential property can be daunting! In order to make the best decision possible it’s important to research the market and consider all your options. Navigating the real estate world without help is very difficult. You need someone you can trust who can be your advocate and answer your questions. Below are some links that will help make your search easier. If you have any questions about a property or the area in general, please reach out to me.

What is a Buyer’s Agent?

A buyer’s agent is someone who represents a buyer’s interests when buying real estate in MA. A buyer is considered a “client” of the real estate agent. Not a customer. They become a fiduciary to the buyer in all aspects of the transaction with their loyalty being to their client.

How Do Buyer’s Agents Get Paid?

In Massachusetts, there are several ways a buyer’s agent may be compensated, and all real estate commissions are fully negotiable. A seller may choose to offer compensation to the buyer’s broker as part of the negotiated offer, which can reduce or eliminate the buyer’s out-of-pocket cost for representation. If the seller does not offer compensation, or the amount offered is less than what the buyer and their agent agreed upon in their buyer representation agreement, the buyer may be responsible for paying the difference or the entire fee. Buyers can also negotiate, as part of their purchase offer, for the seller to pay or contribute toward their buyer’s agent’s commission, subject to the seller’s agreement. Because commissions are negotiable between buyers, sellers, and their respective brokers, it is important to discuss compensation early in the home-buying process so everyone understands how the buyer’s agent will be paid before an offer is submitted.