Let’s be honest: no one loves the idea of paying extra in real estate—especially when the market is already expensive, cutthroat, and fast-moving like Northern Virginia (NOVA). So when buyers started seeing contracts where they pay the agent's fee instead of the seller, it raised eyebrows. Is this fair? Is this the new normal?
At AV Architects + Builders, we believe working with a realtor is still valuable, and we’re here to help you make the most of that partnership. With our deep understanding of the NOVA market, we promise to guide you through the complexities of the process, ensuring you get the best deal possible. From understanding contracts to finding the perfect property, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.
So, is it worth working with a realtor? The short answer? Yes—but you must understand what you're signing, and we promise to make sure you’re fully informed and supported.
What Is a Buyer’s Agreement (and Why It’s Suddenly a Big Deal)?
A buyer’s agreement (also called a buyer-broker agreement or buyer representation contract) is a legal contract between a homebuyer and a licensed real estate agent. It defines:
And here’s the kicker — this fee is now commonly paid by the buyer.
That’s right. In today’s contracts, the buyer agrees to pay a negotiated commission (often 1–3% of the sale price) even if the seller no longer covers it. With increased scrutiny from the DOJ and ongoing shifts in real estate commission transparency, this change reflects a broader evolution in how real estate referral fees are regulated across the country.
The Woodlands House, Great Falls, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders
Some buyers think, “Why use an agent if I’m paying the fee?” Good question. But the truth is, flying solo limits you to what you see on public sites like Zillow and Redfin.
Agents, on the other hand, unlock:
Plus, when the right lot hits in NOVA, you’ll need more than a scroll — you’ll need speed and strategy. Offers move fast, and missing one beat can cost you the perfect property. You also risk missing opportunities to build instead of buy, which might make more sense for your goals and timeline.
Good realtors do way more than unlock doors. They help structure the deal to protect you.
✔ Type of financing
✔ Study periods
✔ Close timelines
✔ Home inspection contingencies
✔ Zoning and land suitability (especially for custom builds)
In competitive markets like NOVA — where land is scarce and sellers hold the cards — a weak offer (or a weak agent) means you’ll overpay, miss out, or buy the wrong thing altogether.
And speaking of custom homes — if you’re planning on building from scratch, your agent’s eye can influence everything from layout strategy to curb appeal that increases resale value. Design matters more than ever when your home is also a long-term investment.
The agent is just one part of the triangle. Their lender and title company relationships matter, too. Any of these three can blow up a deal.
Working with a savvy, full-time realtor means:
This isn’t a DIY moment — it’s an investment. And if you’re not sure where to start, take a look at realtors we recommend for homebuyers in Northern Virginia and DC.
Bonus insight: Custom builds and townhomes are on the rise in this region. Recent data confirms that more buyers are thinking beyond resale homes — and your realtor should be ready for that shift.
The Hill House, McLean, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders
Is Paying the Buyer’s Fee Worth It?
Here’s the truth: you’re not paying for access — you’re paying for advantage.
It’s not just about getting a property — it’s about getting the right property, at the right price, under the right terms. That might mean evaluating land, assessing the cost of utilities and zoning restrictions, or even knowing whether a property is primed for a high-end smart home build.
The most important factors when investing in real estate haven’t changed: location, timing, team, and vision. But what has changed is how much buyers need to be informed, strategic, and fast-moving in order to get ahead.
Yes, you’ll sign a contract. Yes, there’s a fee involved. But with the right agent, that contract becomes your shield — and that fee becomes your leverage.
If you're serious about owning property — whether it's raw land to build your forever home, a fixer-upper with potential, or a turnkey smart home ready to move in — your first move should be teaming up with professionals who know exactly how to get it done. At AV Architects + Builders, we don’t just design and build incredible homes — we offer full-service real estate expertise to help you secure the right property from the start.
Our CEO, Francisca Alonso, isn’t just a visionary — she’s also a licensed real estate agent with the hustle, connections, and know-how to find hidden gems and close deals fast. From scouting land and negotiating contracts to navigating permits and fast-tracking your dream home, we’ve built a streamlined, no-nonsense process that takes you from “just browsing” to “just moved in” — without the stress.
And remember, whether you're designing a smart home, negotiating a new construction purchase, or choosing between resale and custom, your team should be helping you build equity — not just close deals.
We don’t just build homes. We build legacies. Let’s make yours next.
The wrong agent will waste your time and money.
The right one? They’ll get you into a home that checks your boxes and builds your wealth.
So, before you dismiss the buyer’s agreement — ask yourself: Do I want to win in this market? Or just survive it?
Ready to make the right choice? Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss how the right agent can help you win in this market. Click here to get started.
Want to learn more about the homebuying process? Visit our Learning Center for helpful resources.