Your agent may represent the buyer or tenant, the seller or landlord, or both sides through a disclosed dual-agency arrangement. Confirm the relationship at the beginning of your dealings and review the applicable agency disclosure.

Dual agency, including dual agency with designated agents, requires informed written consent from both sides. With designated agents, separate agents advocate for each client while the broker remains a dual agent.

The agency disclosure explains representation; it is not a representation contract. Who pays the commission does not, by itself, determine whom the agent represents.

Learn more about agency relationships

These documents help establish that you are prepared to complete the purchase. A pre-approval addresses financing; proof of funds supports your available down payment and closing costs, or the full purchase price for a cash purchase.

Depending on the property and transaction, additional information may include employment verification, credit and debt information, a questionnaire, identification, and a written buyer-representation agreement. Co-op applications may require more extensive financial documentation.

It is an important starting point. The seller or listing agent may ask what the lender reviewed and whether any conditions remain. A pre-approval is not a guarantee of final loan approval; the property and your finances must still satisfy the lender's requirements.

Requirements vary by lender, seller, building, and transaction. Prior purchases do not replace current documentation. Your agent will explain what is needed for the property you want to purchase.

A well-documented offer gives the seller more confidence in your ability to close and can strengthen your position when offers are being compared. It also helps identify financing questions early.

We start with your preferred area, budget, property type, and other priorities. Under your representation agreement, we locate suitable properties, arrange showings, help prepare and negotiate offers, and guide you through the transaction to closing.

We can also recommend attorneys, lenders, inspectors, and other professionals as needed.

The listing agent represents the seller. If you want an agent to advocate for you, ask about assigning a different CS Realty agent through a designated dual-agency arrangement, subject to both parties' informed written consent. Confirm the arrangement before discussing your negotiating position.

A seller's listing agent does not become your buyer's agent simply because they show you a property or help communicate an offer. Confirm whether you are unrepresented or whether a separate, properly disclosed agency arrangement has been established.

Your written buyer-representation agreement sets the fee, services, and your payment obligations. CS Realty's proposed buyer-broker compensation is generally 2.5% to 3% of the selling price, subject to negotiation and the specific agreement. Commissions are negotiable and are not set by law.

A seller or another broker may contribute toward that agreed fee. If the full agreed amount is covered, you would not owe an additional amount toward it. If it is not fully covered, your agreement determines any balance you owe.

Seller-paid compensation or credits may be requested as part of an offer, but they are not guaranteed and must fit the transaction and lender requirements. We will discuss compensation and any potential out-of-pocket cost before you commit.

Under the CS Realty policy described here, the total rental commission is no more than 15% of the annual rent, and the tenant's share is no more than one month's rent. The landlord may pay all or part of the total fee. Any tenant brokerage fee is payable upon lease signing as specified in the written agreement.

Fees are negotiable and must be agreed in writing. Your agent will explain the amount you would pay and any landlord contribution before you proceed.

Yes. Tell your agent whether you want no-fee rentals, rentals with a reduced tenant fee, or all available fee arrangements within your budget.

A listing does not automatically include payment to your tenant's agent. We will review the compensation available, your written agreement, and any amount you would owe so you can make an informed choice.