Why You Need a Buyer’s Agent in 2026

 

Many homebuyers think they can save money by browsing Zillow, Trulia, or other real estate websites and contacting the listing agent directly. The assumption is that by “cutting out the middleman,” they’ll avoid paying a commission.

But is that really true? In most cases, going it alone actually ends up costing more, not just in money, but also in missed opportunities and potential mistakes. Here’s why having a dedicated buyer agent matters.

Why contacting the listing agent might not work in your favor. When you inquire about a property online, you’re usually connecting with the listing agent, who represents the seller. While this seems convenient, it presents a conflict of interest. The listing agent already has a relationship with the seller, and their natural inclination is to remain loyal to them.

This means that as a buyer, you may not get complete honesty or full guidance, even though your interest is valuable. It’s not personal, it’s just the way the system is set up.

Single agent vs. transaction broker. It’s important to know the difference between a single agent and a transaction broker:

• Single agent: Works exclusively for you, the buyer. You get 100% loyalty, full confidentiality, and complete disclosure. Think of a single agent as your coach, guiding and protecting you through the entire home-buying process.
• Transaction broker: Acts more like a referee. They facilitate the deal but do not advocate fully on your behalf.

Having a single agent in your corner means you have someone negotiating, advising, and looking out for your best interests, rather than just helping both sides get a deal done.

The truth about commissions. Many buyers avoid hiring an agent because they think it will cost them extra. In reality, most sellers today offer a buyer co-op commission, meaning the seller pays the buyer agent. Hiring a skilled buyer agent is essentially free for you, and they will negotiate to ensure you get the best deal.

A good buyer agent handles:

• Scheduling inspections
• Negotiating repairs
• Coordinating with lenders
• Guiding you all the way to closing

They are there to protect your money and your future, not just to make a commission.

Why is a buyer brokerage agreement required? Across the country, agents have to have a signed agreement, sometimes called a showing agreement, before we can show you any property.

Here’s why it matters: this agreement lets agents work fully and honestly for you. Without it, we can’t dig into off-market deals or explore for-sale-by-owner listings, and you might miss out on some opportunities.

Think of it like this: would you let three doctors operate on the same patient at the same time? Of course not. There needs to be one person fully responsible.

Protect your investment. Committing to a buyer agent ensures you have a professional in your corner, guiding you through every stage of the process, protecting your interests, and helping you make informed decisions. Going into such an important purchase with limited representation is a risk that’s simply not worth taking.

If you want to find your home and protect your future, or need guidance, reach out to me anytime at (904) 650-3890, email Matty@PursuitRealEstate.com, or visit mattymillerrealestate.com. I’ll help you every step of the way, answer your questions, and make the process easier to understand.