The second reason to hire a Buyer’s Agent is to clarify that in your transaction, you and only you will be represented by your agent. (And preferably by the broker as well.)

By signing a Buyer Agency Agreement, you establish a contractual relationship with the brokerage that makes the broker and the agent you are working with legally accountable to you.

However, if you hire a Buyer’s Agent from a company that also lists property, you will want to find out up-front what happens to your representation if you should happen to become interested in a property listed for sale with that agent, or if you are interested in a property listed by another agent in the same company. Many reputable companies will allow you to seek representation from a different agent or from a brokerage whose loyalties will not be divided, but many others do not.

In an ideal world, you would find a competent Exclusive Buyer Brokerage to represent you. Exclusive Buyer Brokerages do not list homes or represent sellers. This assures that you will be fully represented in your transaction.

If there is not a good Exclusive Buyer Brokerage available in your area of interest, it's best to find a Buyer’s Agent with policies that meet your satisfaction regarding how conflicts of interests that may arise will be handled. If any promises are made, make sure they are in writing.

NOTE: Many traditional brokerages use an agreement form with buyers called an “Exclusive Buyer-Brokerage Agreement” or similar. This does not necessarily ensure that you are hiring an Exclusive Buyer Brokerage. Often, the word “exclusive” in the title simply means that you are committing to hire the brokerage as your exclusive agent. (Meaning they are the only brokerage you can work with until the agreement ends.)