What You Need to Know About Buyer Broker Agreements

Market Update Jeff Lang February 25, 2026

What is the buyer broker agreement in San Mateo County, and why is it important in 2026? Get the facts on commission, contracts, and your rights as a buyer.

If you’re buying a home in San Mateo County, you may have heard of something called the "Buyer Broker Agreement" but aren’t sure how it affects you. This agreement is an important part of the home-buying process, but don’t worry, it’s easier to understand than it sounds.

Understanding the buyer broker agreement. In simple terms, a Buyer Broker Agreement is the contract between you and the real estate agent who represents you as a buyer. It defines the terms of your relationship, how long the agent will represent you, and how much the agent will be paid.

In San Mateo County, this agreement typically lasts for 90 days but can be extended if needed. The agreement also outlines what the agent will do for you, such as finding properties, arranging showings, and negotiating offers.

Who pays the commission in San Mateo County? A common question when dealing with Buyer Broker Agreements is: who actually pays the commission? In San Mateo County, the commission is often paid by the seller, not the buyer. This is something that’s important to understand when making an offer on a property.

In the agreement, the buyer’s agent will request that the seller cover their commission, which is typically 2.5% to 3% of the purchase price. This arrangement helps you focus on the house, not on extra fees.

"The Buyer Broker Agreement lets your agent provide dedicated, personalized support throughout the process."

How does this affect your home-buying experience? The Buyer Broker Agreement can make your home-buying process smoother. With this agreement, your agent is committed to working on your behalf, which means they are looking out for your best interests.

By clearly defining the terms and expectations, both you and your agent know what’s expected. If you're unsure about anything, like who’s responsible for paying certain fees, the agreement helps clarify everything in advance.

Key benefits of the buyer broker agreement. One of the biggest advantages of signing a Buyer Broker Agreement is that it opens up more opportunities for you. With a formal relationship in place, your agent can tap into additional resources, like off-market properties that aren’t listed publicly. This provides a competitive advantage in a fast-moving market.

The Buyer Broker Agreement ensures your agent can offer dedicated, personalized support to guide you through the entire process, from making an offer and negotiating terms to understanding the closing details.

Are you ready to start your home-buying journey in San Mateo County? Understanding the Buyer Broker Agreement and how it works is just the first step to making an informed decision. If you need help navigating the real estate market or have any questions about the commission structure, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call me at 650-766-6412 or email me at [email protected] to get started today!

Jeff Lang

Primary phone
(650) 766-6412
License Number
#01221669
Email
[email protected]
Address
1440 Chapin Ave,
Burlingame, CA 94401

About The Author

Jeff Lang's career in real estate is a testament to his strategic, growth-oriented mindset and his dedication to helping clients navigate the unique landscapes of San Mateo County. With his focus on areas from Burlingame to San Carlos and Pacifica since 2011, Jeff has become an invaluable asset to those seeking the perfect balance of urban and suburban life. His appreciation for the county's temperate weather and easy access to a plethora of outdoor activities resonates deeply with his clientele, who seek both the vibrancy of urban living and the tranquility of suburban spaces.

Beginning his journey in commercial real estate in San Francisco in 1997 and later transitioning to residential real estate in La Jolla, Jeff has honed a deep understanding of the industry. Known for his professional, caring, and patient approach, he brings a results-oriented and responsive attitude to every transaction. Jeff's unique strength lies in his ability to outperform competitors by leveraging his extensive experience and education.

Jeff leverages his education having received his JD and an MBA, alongside numerous real estate certifications including Master Certified Negotiations Expert and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, enabling him to devise winning strategies for each transaction. His approach not only ensures success but also puts his clients at ease, earning their trust and loyalty.

Outside of real estate, Jeff's life is as dynamic and multifaceted as his professional pursuits. His hobbies range from trail running and hiking with his dog to playing golf, tennis, and pickleball, and he's an enthusiastic Peloton user. A proud graduate of law school at the age of 42 and an Ironman triathlon finisher, Jeff's achievements speak to his determination and commitment. These qualities, combined with his professional expertise, make him an exceptional choice for buyers, sellers, and investors—especially in the $2m+ range—who are looking for more than just a transaction but a partnership with a seasoned expert who will turn them into raving fans.

In his over two decades in real estate, Jeff is most proud of partnering with his clients to build the life of their dreams. It helps that Jeff is a negotiations shark, having competed nationally as president of the negotiations team in law school and as a Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE). His MBA and JD also give him and his clients a competitive advantage in every transaction, leading to his listings selling for 4.8% more than the average San Mateo County agent and offers getting accepted 6x more frequently.

If you are looking for an agent who will take on your goal as their own and be relentless in their pursuit of achieving that goal, then you want Jeff as your partner. He’s completed five marathons, including one in Antarctica, and dozens of triathlons, including an Ironman. His passion for taking on a challenge and grinding away to craft creative solutions is unparalleled. Jeff has a natural talent for putting things in perspective, keeping your eye on the prize, and clarifying the strategy to provide opportunities for success in your transaction.

A few of Jeff’s other certifications include NAR’s ePro for advanced digital marketing and NAR’s Green Designations for sustainability in real estate, Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certification, Keller Williams’ BOLD program, and Tony Robbins’ Mastery University. He is also a member of the Institute for Luxury Marketing. These help him and his clients outpace the competition by selling at a higher price and getting offers accepted more often. This track record and partnership continue to provide repeat and referral business, the basis for his growing business.

Reach out to Jeff for a free consultation to discuss your real estate goals. He would be happy to make your goals his and utilize his extensive experience to make it happen.