Just Ask Maria

A Must-Read for Buyers, Sellers, and Investors By Maria Wallace | Real Estate Broker, The Cross Realty Group Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or someone preparing to sell your home in Illinois, understanding the role of the Buyer-Broker Agreement has never been more important. As of August 17, 2024, new federal legal changes now require this agreement to be signed before any licensed real estate agent—like myself—can show homes listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). So what does this mean for you? Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, I'm here to break it down and give you the best advice on how buyer broker fees affect every side of the deal—and how to navigate them with confidence. 📌 TL;DR: Quick Takeaways Mandatory Agreements: As of August 17, 2024, Buyer-Broker Agreements are legally required before any home showings can occur. Fee Negotiation Up Front: Commissions for buyer’s agents must be clearly discussed and agreed to bef...