Why You’re Being Asked to Sign a Buyer Agreement in Louisiana (And What It Means for You)

If you’re starting your home search in Louisiana, you may have noticed your agent asking you to sign a written buyer agreement before even seeing homes. Don’t worry — this isn’t a sales trick. It’s actually part of new industry standards nationwide designed to protect both buyers and agents. 

From Tyler Terrebonne (blog owner):

 "Even if my own mother wanted to tour a home, she'd need to sign one ;)"

🏡 What Is a Written Buyer Agreement?

A written buyer agreement is a contract between you and your real estate agent that clearly lays out:

• The services your agent will provide (finding homes, scheduling tours, negotiating on your behalf),

• How and when your agent will be compensated,

• Responsibilities and expectations for both you and your agent.

Think of it as a roadmap that keeps everyone on the same page from the start.

📆 Why Louisiana Agents Are Asking for It Now

In August 2024, the National Association of REALTORS® updated its practice standards following a major industry settlement regarding how broker commissions are handled. Under these new rules, REALTOR® members must have a signed buyer agreement before showing homes to buyers they represent — whether in-person or virtually.

This ensures:

• Clear communication about the agent-client relationship,

• Transparency about compensation,

• Fewer misunderstandings down the road.

Even here in Louisiana, where real estate rules are unique, MLS rules and local brokerages generally follow this practice.

🚫 What Signing an Agreement Doesn’t Mean

You don’t have to sign a buyer agreement if you’re:

• Visiting open houses on your own,

• Asking general questions about the homebuying process,

💰 Will You Have to Pay Your Agent Out of Pocket?

Not necessarily! The buyer agreement spells out how your agent will be paid, but in most deals, the seller pays the commission, or the payment is negotiated as part of the deal. The key is that it’s transparent from the start, so you know exactly what to expect.

99.9% of sellers are still offering to cover buyer agent fee for procuring/bringing the buyer to the deal. 

From Tyler: "I call this fee the Success Fee. We have to get all the way to the closing table, and close the deal before this fee even comes into play. There's nothing up front, or during the entire process. The fee is covered from the sale of the transaction, and ONLY when we close on the Home. 100% done deal before its paid."

🧠 Why This Is Actually a Good Thing

Signing a buyer agreement protects both you and your agent:

• You have someone legally obligated to represent your best interests,

• Your agent’s time and expertise are respected,

• Expectations are clear so there are no surprises later.

It’s a simple step that sets you up for a smoother, less stressful homebuying experience.

✅ Bottom Line

In Louisiana, signing a buyer agreement before touring homes is now the standard if an agent is representing you.

 It’s not a barrier — it’s a tool to make your home search safer, more transparent, and stress-free.

If you’re ready to start looking at homes and want a trusted agent in your corner, reach out today!

Tyler Terrebonne
📞 225‑341‑0081
✉️ tyler.terrebonne@evrealestate.com