Should You Work With a Realtor as a Buyer? (Yes, But There’s a Catch)

From The American Dream Team at Cornerstone Land Abstract…Your Personal Advisors and Trusted Translators of Real Estate Gibberish

Let’s be real: the New York real estate market is less a game of Monopoly and more a game of Mortal Kombat without the cool costumes and weapons. And your guide in this realm is your real estate agent….the person who is supposed to be your negotiator and advocate. But here’s the twist: in most cases, the buyer’s agent is paid by the seller.

Yes, you read that right. The person showing you homes, making your offer, and consoling you during your late night “they didn’t accept our offer” rants doesn’t work for you…not legally, anyway. That agent usually shares a commission with the seller’s agent. This arrangement can work just fine…or it can blur loyalties like a classic season of Survivor.

Changing Times: The Buyer’s Broker Agreement

Here’s a recent twist: until last year, most buyers never signed anything with their agent. You just started looking at homes and, poof, you were “working together.” The agent got paid by splitting the seller’s commission, and everyone pretended that meant they worked for you.

Now? Under New York’s updated rules, buyer’s agents are supposed to put it in writing, usually in a Buyer’s Broker Agreement. This way it’s crystal clear what they’ll do for you, what you’ll do for them, and how they’ll be paid. Yes, sometimes that means you may owe them directly if the seller’s side doesn’t cover their full commission. Translation: read before you sign, and don’t be afraid to negotiate terms that make sense for you.

So, Should You Still Work With a Realtor?

Absolutely. Just do it with your eyes opened. A skilled agent can save you time by filtering out listings that don’t fit your needs, and helping you identify real value while spotting potential red flags. They coordinate inspections and walk-throughs so nothing falls through the cracks, and advocate for you in price negotiations when those negotiations are actually above board.

Justin McCartney, Realtor and member of the American Dream Team at Cornerstone, believes building the right relationship with a realtor is essential.  “You don’t want to be in this alone. Too many buyers get sent to open houses without their agent even present. Work with someone who’s willing to show up-literally and figuratively-during one of the biggest purchases of your life.”

Warning: Watch Out for the “Exclusive Listing” Trap

In some cases, the seller gives a broker an exclusive listing, meaning that broker alone can sell the house. That can make it tricky for your agent to get involved. When that happens, it might be smarter to contact the listing broker directly or show up at an open house. You don’t need to be rude or disloyal, just strategic.

The American Dream Team’s Final Word

You need a broker, but you also need to understand the game. That means asking the right questions, staying engaged, and remembering that this isn’t just a transaction. It’s your home, your money, and your future.

If you’re at the beginning of the process, this is the ideal time to bring the right professionals together. Cornerstone is always happy to make thoughtful, vetted referrals and help you assemble a team that works in your best interests from day one. Starting with the right partners can make the entire journey smoother, clearer, and far less stressful.