Buyer Representation in Pennsylvania: What Buyers Need to Know

If you’re planning to buy a home in Pennsylvania, a written buyer representation agreement is required before touring homes with a real estate agent. At Kingsway Realty, we believe in clarity and transparency. Here’s what this means for you.

Before We Schedule Home Tours

To schedule private showings, we’ll first review and sign a simple written buyer representation agreement together.

This agreement is required before touring homes listed in the MLS. Its purpose is to clearly establish our working relationship, outline how compensation is handled, and confirm that we represent you — not the seller.

We’ll walk through it with you, answer your questions, and make sure you feel comfortable before moving forward.

Our goal is clarity and protection — not pressure.

What Is a Buyer Agency Agreement?

A buyer agency agreement is a written contract that formally establishes the relationship between you and your real estate agent.

Once signed, the agent owes you fiduciary duties, including:

• Loyalty – Acting in your best interest
• Confidentiality – Protecting your financial and personal information
• Disclosure – Sharing material information that could impact your decision
• Reasonable Care – Providing professional guidance throughout the transaction

This agreement ensures your agent is legally and ethically committed to representing you.osure, and missed paperwork requirements can lead to longer time on market or reduced sale prices.

What Does the Agreement Include?

A typical Pennsylvania buyer agency agreement outlines:

• Scope of Representation – Defines whether the agreement is exclusive and what services will be provided.
• Duration – Specifies the time period of representation.
• Buyer Responsibilities – Explains expectations for communication and cooperation.
• Compensation Terms – Buyer agent compensation is fully negotiable. It is no longer displayed in the MLS. The agreement clearly explains:
  • How your agent will be compensated
  • Whether compensation may be requested from the seller as part of your offer
  • What happens if compensation is not offered by the seller

This transparency allows buyers to understand financial expectations upfront.

What About Open Houses?

Kingsway Realty offers flexible solutions for FSBO sellers throughout Lancaster County, PA. Our agents brYou may attend an open house without signing a buyer agency agreement. However, the agent hosting the open house represents the seller unless you already have a signed agreement with your own buyer’s agent.

If you want private tours and dedicated representation, a written agreement must be in place first.

FAQs About Buyer Agency Agreements

Start Your Home Search with More Confidence

Buying a home is one of the largest financial decisions you’ll make. Understanding how representation works empowers you to make informed choices.

At Kingsway Realty, we take time to explain your options before asking for any commitment. Whether you’re just beginning your search or ready to schedule showings, we’re here to guide you with clarity and professionalism.

If you have questions about buyer representation or agency agreements in Pennsylvania, contact Kingsway Realty today. We’re happy to walk you through the process so you can move forward with confidence.