Why So Many Buyers Are Signing the Wrong BRBC

Chase from the Whitney Team explains that many California buyers are signing the wrong buyer representation and broker compensation (BRBC) agreement, a requirement since August 2024 after the NAR settlement, and that this can cost them significant money. Buyers often treat the agreement as a formality, sign with an obligated or low-commission agent, or try to use the listing agent to “get a better deal,” which can lead to dual agency and limited advocacy because one agent owes fiduciary duties to both buyer and seller. He argues that strong independent representation is critical in competitive Southern California markets, citing access to pre-market/off-market homes, offer strategy, repair requests, and negotiation leverage. He recommends asking three questions before signing: what’s included in the agreement (in writing), access to pre/off-market inventory, and the agent’s local buyer transactions in the last 12 months. 00:00 Wrong Buyer Agreement 00:26 New BRBC Rule Change 00:44 Common Signing Traps 01:24 Dual Agency Limits 02:16 Why Full Service Wins 02:50 Three Questions to Ask 03:13 Discount vs Full Service 03:27 Wrap Up and Resources