Since August 2024, the rules for how buyers and their agents work together changed. Here's what's in the agreement and how your agent gets paid.
Usually, yes. Since August 17, 2024, agents who belong to a multiple listing service need a written agreement with a buyer before touring homes together. The agreement says what the agent does and how much they're paid. That amount is negotiable. The buyer may pay it, the seller may agree to cover it, or it can be split as part of your offer.
Showings, offers, negotiation, and getting you through inspection and closing.
A flat fee, a percentage, or an hourly rate. Not “whatever the seller offers.”
A single home, a few weeks, or several months. You can negotiate it.
A neighborhood, a city, or the whole metro.
Your agreement says what your agent earns. When you make an offer, you decide how to handle it: pay it yourself at closing, ask the seller to pay some or all of it, or ask for a seller credit. Many Omaha sellers still agree to help, especially in a slower market.
If you're using a loan, ask your lender early how buyer-paid fees affect your cash to close.
You can go to an open house on your own. To tour with an agent, expect a written agreement first. Some agents offer a short agreement that covers a single showing.
No. Compensation is negotiable and must be a specific amount or rate, written in the agreement.
Yes. You can ask for it in your offer, as a direct payment or a seller concession. The seller can say yes, no, or meet you partway.
Read the termination terms before you sign. Ask for a shorter term if you're unsure.
I'll send you mine and walk through every line. No pressure to sign the same day.
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