Why do I need a Buyers agent in Bay Area?

Question

Hi,

I have been buying and selling several properties (without an agent) outside CA in the past few years. I am now looking to buy a primary residence in bay area and wondering if I can represent myself in the deal and split the transaction fee directly with listing agent? In the world where an offer has to be written with NO contingencies and there are full price offers; what value will a buyer's agent provide?

Thanks

Russell Brazil · Answer

You are not able to split the transaction fee with the listing agent.  An agent can not share their commission with you if you do not have a license and you are not their client.  Where there is no buyers agent involved, the listing agent will make the entirety of their commission. When there is a buyers agent involved, they will typically share roughly half their commission with a buyers agent.

Patrick Mallen · Answer

Ashish,

You are not able to split commission with another agent if you are not a realtor yourself in California. Please feel free to reach out with any questions regarding the Bay Area housing market.

Ashish G. · Answer

@Russell - That may be a state specific law. I bought several properties in HI where self representing is allowed and I got the split of commission. Are you saying this generally or you know this isn't allowed in CA?