🏡 What Homebuyers Need to Know About Touring Agreements: A Guide from a South OC Real Estate Expert

By Bryan Suarez, Local Real Estate Agent Serving Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, and Surrounding Areas

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, or anywhere in South Orange County, there’s a major shift in the real estate process you need to know about.

In the wake of the recent National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) commission settlement, buyers are now required to sign a written touring agreement before viewing any home—virtual or in person.

As your trusted South OC real estate expert, I'm here to explain what this means, why it matters, and how it impacts both buyers and sellers in today’s market.

🔍 What Is a Touring Agreement?

A touring agreement is a written contract between a buyer and their real estate agent. Starting August 17, 2024, this agreement is required before touring any properties. It outlines:

• The services your agent will provide

• Any negotiated compensation terms

• The working relationship between you and your agent

This new policy is designed to create transparency and ensure buyers understand who represents their interests—and how agents are paid.

💡 Why Did the Rules Change?

Historically, seller agents would offer compensation to buyer agents via the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), but buyers were often unaware of how their agent was paid. The NAR settlement aims to eliminate that confusion.

Now, buyers will have direct conversations and agreements with their agent about compensation and expectations, making the homebuying process more transparent and fair for everyone involved.

🧭 What This Means for Buyers in South Orange County

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or relocating to the area, here’s how this impacts you:

✅ Transparency: You’ll know exactly what your agent is doing for you and how they’re compensated.
✅ Negotiation Power: You can negotiate the services and terms that work best for your needs.
✅ Confidence in Representation: With a signed agreement, your agent is officially committed to representing your best interests.

🏠 Thinking of Selling Your Home in Mission Viejo?

This new policy also affects home sellers. You’ll need to understand how buyer agents are compensated and what that means for your listing strategy.

As a Mission Viejo listing expert, I’ll guide you through:

• Pricing your home competitively in this changing market

• Offering buyer agent incentives that align with your goals

• Marketing your home to reach serious, qualified buyers

If you’re asking yourself, “How do I sell my home in Mission Viejo with all these changes?” — I’m here to help.

🔑 How I Help Buyers Navigate the New Touring Agreement Process

As your South Orange County real estate partner, I offer a clear, streamlined approach:

1. Free Initial Consultation – Let’s talk about your goals and timeline.

2. Customized Touring Agreement Review – I’ll walk you through each section so you understand exactly what you’re signing.

3. Strategic Property Tours – Once the agreement is in place, I’ll help you find the right homes based on your budget, preferences, and lifestyle.

4. Full-Service Support – From offers to closing, I’ll be there every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

While the new requirement for touring agreements introduces an additional step in the homebuying process, it ultimately fosters a more transparent and collaborative relationship between buyers and agents. By clearly outlining expectations and responsibilities from the outset, we can work together more effectively to find your ideal home in South Orange County.

If you have any questions about touring agreements or the homebuying process in general, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you navigate this new landscape with confidence and clarity!

-Bryan

📞 (949) 522-7502
📧 [email protected] 

Bryan Suarez Real Estate | Top Realtor in Mission Viejo, Orange County