New rules from the MLS and National Association of Realtors are here

New rules from the MLS and National Association of Realtors are here, and they have  changed how real estate works. These updates make everything more open, protect buyers, and adjust to changes in the housing market. The big changes are about how agents get paid and the steps needed before showing homes.

### What’s Changed?

1. **No More Commission Info on MLS**  
You won’t see how much agents get paid (commissions) listed on homes when you search online. To find out, you’ll need to talk to your agent.

2. **Signed Buyer Contract Before Seeing Homes**  
Agents now need you to sign a buyer agency contract before they can show you any houses. It’s a new rule that keeps things clear and legal. Without this signed contract, they can’t show you any homes.

3. **You and Your Agent Decide Commissions**  
Instead of the commission being set, you and your agent will agree on how much they get paid. This is to make things fairer and clearer for everyone.

### How Does This Affect You?

- **Before Seeing a House:**  
When you find a home you like, your agent will ask for a quick meeting to sign the buyer agency contract. This has to be done before they can legally show you the house.

- **Talking About Agent Fees:**  
In that meeting, you’ll also talk about how much your agent will get paid. You and your agent will agree on what their commission will be.

- **Seller Contributions:**  
Once you're ready to look at homes, your agent will ask the seller’s agent if the seller is offering to pay part of the commission. This helps you decide if you’re comfortable with the cost or if you’ll need to cover your agent’s fee.