Why buyers now get a presentation
Since August 17, 2024, agents who take part in a REALTOR®-affiliated MLS, which is most agents, need a written agreement with a buyer before touring a home, and some states now require one by law. That turned the first meeting into a hiring decision. A clear, short presentation is how you earn it.
The outline
The builder gives you nine parts, each with talking points: their goals, how buying works, the local market, the money, the search, the offer, what happens after acceptance, how you work and are paid, and next steps. Choose the short version for a first call.
Add local numbers
Enter a ZIP code and the market section fills in with the median sale price, days on market, the share sold above list and months of supply, with the source and date.
What makes it work
- Ask before you present. The first part is theirs.
- Say your fee plainly and early. It must be a specific amount or rate in the agreement, and it’s negotiable.
- Don’t call your services free, and don’t promise the seller will pay.
- Leave them with paper: a “How I’m paid” handout and a cost-to-buy sheet.
More in the buyer presentation: what to cover.
Questions agents ask
What should a buyer presentation include?
Their goals, how buying works locally, current market numbers, the money needed, how you search and write offers, what happens after acceptance, how you are paid, and next steps.
How long should a buyer presentation be?
About 20 minutes of presenting inside a 45-minute meeting works for most buyers. Spend the rest listening and answering questions.
Do I need a buyer agreement before showing homes?
In most cases, yes. Since August 17, 2024, agents who take part in a REALTOR®-affiliated MLS need a written agreement stating a specific fee before touring a home with a buyer, and some states require one by law. An open house visit doesn’t need one.