Frequently Asked Questions
About Buyer Agency

Q. What is an exclusive buyer's agent?
A. An exclusive buyer's agent is an agent that takes no listings and never represents sellers in real estate transactions. Furthermore, he/she works for a firm that never takes listings or represents sellers. The agent and firm strictly represent the best interests of real estate purchasers.

Q. Why would an agent and/or agency choose to give up a listing side of the business?
A. In order to provide a higher level of service to a client without the conflicts of interest that inevitably occurs when a firm represents both buyers and sellers.

Q. How does a buyer agency get paid?
A. Typically there are no additional costs associated with working with a buyer's agent of Fletcher Realty. All listed property already has the agents commissions built into their price. These commissions are split between the listing firm and selling firm at closing. Sometimes though, when we help our buyers purchase for-sale-by-owner properties, we have to look to our buyers for our commission. But, in these cases our buyers are fully aware of the costs prior to making any written offer.

Q. How can you save me money on my transaction costs?
A. We can save our clients money in several different ways:

  • By negotiating a lower sales price
  • By negotiating repairs pursuant to property inspections
  • By negotiating personal property into the sales price
  • By helping our clients find the lowest mortgage costs and negotiating sellers into paying closing costs
  • By obtaining home warranties and other extras within the final sales price
  • Any way we can!

Q. Will I have to sign a contract with you to hire you as my agent?
A. In North Carolina, all real estate agents are considered agents of the seller UNLESS there is a written buyer agency agreement between the buyer and the agent. Since Fletcher Realty works strictly with buyers, it is imperative that we avoid any potential seller representation. If you hire our firm, you will be asked to sign a contract that allows us to truly represent your best interests. It is a simple form that clearly outlines our fiduciary responsibilities to you as our client. There is also a clause in the contract that allows you to withdraw at anytime, so you should never feel as if you are held hostage.