Understanding Written Buyer Agreements
Chris Moore (Sales Associate · Momentum Realty · SL3389080) explains how modern buyer representation works under current Florida real estate rules.
1. Written Buyer Representation Agreements
Before touring any home (in-person or virtually), Florida real estate regulations require a written agreement specifying the scope of services, duties, and agreed buyer representation terms.
2. New Construction Builder Representation Rule
Builder sales center agents work 100% for the builder. To protect your inspection rights, lot choice, and closing incentives, bring your independent buyer agent (Chris Moore) on your very first visit to the sales office.
3. Flexible Compensation & Seller Credits
Buyer agent compensation is fully negotiable and can be structured via seller concessions, builder credits, or written agreement terms to minimize out-of-pocket costs.Community Development District (CDD) assessments repay the bonds that built a community's infrastructure, typically over decades, and appear on the tax bill on top of any HOA dues. The amount differs by community and by phase — always pull the actual assessment for the specific lot. HOA fees cover common area maintenance. Evaluating whether CDD debt is expiring gives buyers significant leverage.
Q: What builder flex incentives are available for new construction?
A: Many builders offer incentive packages — often as rate buydowns or closing-cost credits through a preferred lender — and the amounts change month to month and community to community. Always get the current incentive sheet in writing and compare it against the total price, not in isolation. Bringing an independent buyer agent to your first visit protects your pricing rights. Homes zoned for highly rated schools often carry a price premium over otherwise comparable homes zoned elsewhere — the size of that premium shifts with the market, so compare recent sales on both sides of the boundary.
Q: What is the difference between an instant cash offer and listing on MLS?
A: A cash offer trades speed and certainty — an as-is close in days, no showings — against the open market, which usually nets more but takes longer and depends on condition, pricing and timing. Run both numbers side by side before deciding.