Understanding the Buyer's Agent’s Role and Why Choosing the Right One Matters
One of the most common frustrations I see from homebuyers—especially first-time buyers—is this: “My agent didn’t do anything for me.” Or, “I had to figure everything out on my own to get to closing.” It’s disappointing to hear, but unfortunately, not all real estate agents give the level of service buyers deserve. This often leads to a question I hear too late in the process:
“Can I change my realtor right before closing?”
The short answer? No.
Let’s dive into why that is—and what homebuyers need to know when choosing an agent in the first place.
Why You Can’t Change Agents at the Last Minute
When you begin working with a buyer’s agent, chances are you signed a Buyer Agency Agreement. This is a legally binding contract that gives that agent the exclusive right to represent you in a home purchase for a set period of time. Even if you feel the agent didn’t meet your expectations, you are still under contract unless the agent or broker agrees to release you.
Once you're under contract to buy a home and you're heading toward settlement, it’s too late to switch. That agent is tied to the transaction and is entitled to the agreed-upon commission—whether you liked the service or not. Trying to change agents at this stage can cause confusion, delays, and even legal complications.
[What a Good Buyer’s Agent Should Be Doing]
If you’re feeling let down by your agent, it’s worth understanding what the role should include. A professional and committed buyer’s agent should:
• Help you understand your needs and wants to find the right home.
• Educate you on the local market and guide you through pricing and offer strategies.
• Negotiate on your behalf to get the best terms and protect your interests.
• Coordinate inspections, appraisals, and timelines, keeping everything on track.
• Communicate regularly with you, the listing agent, lender, title company, and other parties.
• Answer your questions and help you understand the process every step of the way.
If you had to do all this on your own, it means your agent didn’t fulfill their duty. And that’s not okay.
[Why It’s So Important to Choose the Right Agent From the Start]
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. It’s not something you should go through alone—or with someone who just unlocks doors and disappears.
Before committing to an agent, ask questions like:
• How do you communicate with your clients?
• What’s your process from showing to closing?
• How many buyers have you helped recently?
• What’s your availability like?
• Can you walk me through what happens after my offer is accepted?
A great agent isn’t just there to show homes. They’re your guide, advocate, and partner throughout the entire journey. Make sure you're working with someone who takes that responsibility seriously.
If you’re reading this before buying a home—good news! You still have time to choose wisely. If you’re already under contract and feel unsupported, unfortunately, switching agents right before closing isn’t an option—but you can make sure it never happens again by being more selective in the future.
And if you're looking for someone who values communication, diligence, and genuine client care, I’d be honored to help you through your next real estate journey.
One of the most common frustrations I see from homebuyers—especially first-time buyers—is this: “My agent didn’t do anything for me.” Or, “I had to figure everything out on my own to get to closing.” It’s disappointing to hear, but unfortunately, not all real estate agents give the level of service buyers deserve. This often leads to a question I hear too late in the process:
“Can I change my realtor right before closing?”
The short answer? No.
Let’s dive into why that is—and what homebuyers need to know when choosing an agent in the first place.
Why You Can’t Change Agents at the Last Minute
When you begin working with a buyer’s agent, chances are you signed a Buyer Agency Agreement. This is a legally binding contract that gives that agent the exclusive right to represent you in a home purchase for a set period of time. Even if you feel the agent didn’t meet your expectations, you are still under contract unless the agent or broker agrees to release you.
Once you're under contract to buy a home and you're heading toward settlement, it’s too late to switch. That agent is tied to the transaction and is entitled to the agreed-upon commission—whether you liked the service or not. Trying to change agents at this stage can cause confusion, delays, and even legal complications.
[What a Good Buyer’s Agent Should Be Doing]
If you’re feeling let down by your agent, it’s worth understanding what the role should include. A professional and committed buyer’s agent should:
• Help you understand your needs and wants to find the right home.
• Educate you on the local market and guide you through pricing and offer strategies.
• Negotiate on your behalf to get the best terms and protect your interests.
• Coordinate inspections, appraisals, and timelines, keeping everything on track.
• Communicate regularly with you, the listing agent, lender, title company, and other parties.
• Answer your questions and help you understand the process every step of the way.
If you had to do all this on your own, it means your agent didn’t fulfill their duty. And that’s not okay.
[Why It’s So Important to Choose the Right Agent From the Start]
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. It’s not something you should go through alone—or with someone who just unlocks doors and disappears.
Before committing to an agent, ask questions like:
• How do you communicate with your clients?
• What’s your process from showing to closing?
• How many buyers have you helped recently?
• What’s your availability like?
• Can you walk me through what happens after my offer is accepted?
A great agent isn’t just there to show homes. They’re your guide, advocate, and partner throughout the entire journey. Make sure you're working with someone who takes that responsibility seriously.
If you’re reading this before buying a home—good news! You still have time to choose wisely. If you’re already under contract and feel unsupported, unfortunately, switching agents right before closing isn’t an option—but you can make sure it never happens again by being more selective in the future.
And if you're looking for someone who values communication, diligence, and genuine client care, I’d be honored to help you through your next real estate journey.
"Understanding the Buyer's Agent’s Role and Why Choosing the Right One Matters One of the most common frustrations I s..."
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