You are not legally required to hire a Realtor to purchase a home in Georgia. However, working with a buyer’s agent can provide professional guidance, representation, and assistance throughout the transaction. Real estate commissions are negotiable, and compensation may be paid by the seller, buyer, or another agreed-upon source.
Recent changes to real estate industry practices have created understandable questions about how agents are paid.
If you’re buying a home in Savannah, here’s what you should know before touring properties.
What Does a Buyer’s Agent Actually Do?
Finding a property online is only one part of buying real estate.
A buyer’s agent may help you:
Evaluate asking prices against comparable local sales.
Understand property disclosures and potential concerns.
Prepare and negotiate purchase offers.
Track contract deadlines and due diligence requirements.
Coordinate inspections, appraisal, and closing-related communication.
Identify questions that require a lender, attorney, inspector, or other specialist.
Consider a buyer purchasing a historic home near Ardsley Park.
The buyer may need to evaluate older construction, inspection findings, maintenance expectations, and any applicable property restrictions. Our Savannah home buyer guide provides additional information about property research and the purchasing process.
A buyer purchasing new construction in Pooler may need guidance about builder contracts, incentives, upgrade costs, and inspection opportunities. Buyers can also explore Pooler homes for sale to compare available properties.
Both transactions benefit from knowledgeable representation, but the issues can be different.
Who Pays the Buyer’s Agent in Georgia?
There is no legally mandated commission rate.
The compensation amount and payment arrangement should be clearly discussed and agreed upon.
Depending on the agreement and negotiations, the seller may agree to pay some or all of the buyer broker’s compensation. Alternatively, the buyer may be responsible for some or all of it.
A seller’s agreement to pay is not automatic.
Buyers should understand their potential financial obligations before signing a representation agreement.
The National Association of REALTORS®’ guide to offers of compensation explains how sellers may choose to offer buyer-agent compensation and how those arrangements can be negotiated.
For a broader explanation of expenses associated with buying or selling, review HMG’s Savannah closing costs guide.
Why Am I Being Asked to Sign a Buyer Agreement?
For real estate professionals covered by the applicable MLS rules, a written buyer agreement is generally required before touring a residential home when the professional is working with the buyer.
The agreement explains the brokerage relationship and compensation terms.
Before signing, ask:
What services will you provide?
How long does the agreement last?
What compensation am I agreeing to?
What happens if the seller does not cover that amount?
How can the agreement be changed or ended?
You should understand the terms before committing.
The National Association of REALTORS®’ consumer guide to written buyer agreements provides additional information about these agreements, including negotiable compensation and agreement duration.
You can also review the Heather Murphy Real Estate Group buyer specialists before choosing a professional to represent you.
Is Buying Directly Through the Listing Agent Easier?
Not necessarily.
The listing agent already represents the seller under the listing brokerage relationship.
Approaching that agent directly does not automatically mean you will receive independent buyer representation or save money.
Understanding who represents whom is important before sharing confidential negotiating information.
Buyers interested in exploring available properties can begin with Savannah homes for sale while considering which type of representation best fits their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Realtor commissions fixed in Georgia?
No. Brokerage compensation is negotiable and is not set by law.
Can I ask a seller to pay my buyer-agent fee?
Yes. It may be negotiated as part of an offer, subject to the seller’s agreement and applicable financing rules.
Do I need to sign a buyer agreement just to attend an open house?
A buyer attending an open house independently generally does not need to sign a buyer representation agreement merely to enter.
Representation Should Begin With Transparency
At Heather Murphy Real Estate Group, we believe buyers should understand their representation, financial responsibilities, and options before making a commitment.
Have questions about working with a buyer’s agent in Savannah, Pooler, or Richmond Hill? Connect with our Savannah buyer specialists or contact our team at 912-335-3956.
