Buyer's Guide

In the Twin Cities, the vast majority of homebuyers—more than 90%—choose to work with a buyer’s agent. That’s someone who protects your interests in the purchase. Sellers have agents working for them—why wouldn’t buyers?

In fact, buyer representation is relatively new. Until 1988, all agents legally represented sellers, even if they were helping buyers. The State of Minnesota recognized this imbalance and created buyer agency. Today, buyer representation is standard across the U.S., established by a simple contract—just like a seller signs a listing agreement.

Once that agreement is in place, your agent owes you the full suite of fiduciary duties:

• Loyalty (they can’t switch sides)

• Confidentiality (regarding your price, terms, and motivation)

• Disclosure (of all material facts)

• Obedience (to your lawful instructions)

• Reasonable Care (competence in their job)

• Accounting (for any funds exchanged)

Also important: all commissions are negotiable—period. Anything else is a violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Buying a home can be stressful—but it’s also exciting. And if you’re renting, you’re already paying a mortgage. It just isn’t yours.

Let’s connect. We can walk through the steps, the timing, and your questions—before you even decide to move. It’s never too early to learn about real estate. I love what I do, and I take real joy in helping people make a move that’s right for them—whether it’s big or small.