Buyer Representation Explained – Larry DiFranco Team Hub Site

Buying a Home Today Is Different Than It Used to Be

Understanding buyer representation early can help you tour homes confidently, structure stronger offers, and avoid costly surprises.

Changes in real estate rules for REALTORS® mean buyers now need to make decisions about representation sooner in the process. Whether you’re just starting to browse or actively preparing to tour homes, understanding how buyer representation works will help you move forward with clarity.

👉 Continue Reading to Learn How Buyer Representation Works

📘 Access Our Seasonal Buyer Guide

📅 Schedule a Buyer Strategy Call

What’s Changed for Home Buyers

In today’s market, buyer representation is no longer something that happens “later.” Outside of open houses, buyers are now required to have a written agreement in place before touring homes with a REALTOR®.

This change was designed to bring transparency and clarity to the process — but it also means buyers benefit from understanding their options earlier.

Buyers need a written agreement in place with their agent before private showings
- This contract can be limited in scope (specific to a particular home or area of interest) or duration (even as short as a day when appropriate)
Compensation for buyer representation is no longer advertised in the MLS
Buyers and sellers negotiate these terms more openly

📄Learn more in: The Importance of Buyer Representation

📰Real Estate Changes May Provide a New Edge for Buyers

📅 Schedule a Buyer Strategy Call

What a Buyer’s Agent Actually Does for You

Touring homes is only a small part of buying successfully. A dedicated buyer’s agent helps you make informed decisions, protect your interests, and compete effectively — especially in fast-moving or low-inventory markets.

Strategy Before You Offer 🧠

Pricing guidance grounded in local data
Understanding where flexibility exists (price, timing, concessions)
Preparing strong, realistic offers without overpaying

Guidance During Tours 🚪

Identifying red flags and future costs
Context on layout, location, and resale implications
Honest feedback — not sales pressure

Negotiation & Risk Management 📊

Inspection strategy and repair negotiations
Appraisal planning and gap considerations
Keeping transactions together when challenges arise

Transaction Oversight 📆

Contract timelines and contingencies
Coordination with lenders, partners, and service providers
Clear communication from offer to settlement

🧠Download: Offer Strategies for the Win

📃Download: The Home Buying Process

📅 Schedule: A Buyer Strategy Call

How Buyer Representation Is Paid

Buyer representation is not “free,” but it is often funded in ways buyers don’t initially realize.

In many transactions:

Sellers may offer a concession that can be applied toward buyer representation
Buyers can negotiate how compensation is structured within their offer
In competitive situations, buyers may choose to adjust or waive concessions to strengthen their position

The key is understanding these options before making an offer — so decisions are intentional and strategic.
The goal isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach — it’s helping buyers structure offers that align with their priorities and the realities of the market.

🧠Download: Offer Strategies for the Win

📅 Schedule: A Buyer Strategy Call

Why It Pays to Have This Conversation Early

Avoid last-minute surprises when you’re ready to tour
Enter showings with confidence and clarity
Build a plan before competition heats up
Understand your true buying power and cost variables

📞Schedule a Buyer Strategy Call

Our Approach to Buyer Representation

The Larry DiFranco Team works exclusively to represent our clients’ interests, and we do not practice dual agency. Our role is to advise, negotiate, and advocate — not to “sell” you a particular home.

Our focus is on preparation, strategy, and clear communication so buyers can move forward with confidence at every step.

Local market expertise
Data-driven guidance
Long-term client relationships

About the Larry DiFranco Team

Testimonials and Success Stories

“We found our forever home because of Neil and his team. It was truly a pleasure working with him throughout the buying process. Neil is highly skilled in his craft as a realtor and guided us with expertise and care. In a competitive seller’s market, he helped us design offers that stood out and positioned us as strong buyers. He is also deeply connected to the community and referred us to excellent, thorough professionals, including the home inspector we used. We’re grateful for his dedication and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to buy or sell a home.”

S. Hansley