Getting pre‑approved isn’t just a formality — it’s the foundation of a successful home search. A pre‑approval tells you exactly what you can afford, strengthens your offer, and shows sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer. In today’s competitive market, homes move fast, and buyers with pre‑approvals are the ones who win. Starting here saves time, avoids surprises, and gives you the confidence to shop with a clear budget and a strong strategy. 

1. What interest rate and APR can you offer me today?   (APR includes fees — it’s the real number to compare.)
2. What loan programs do I qualify for, and which one is best for my situation?   (Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, first‑time buyer programs, etc.)
3. What are the total estimated closing costs, and can any be negotiated or reduced?
4. How long does your pre‑approval last, and what documentation do you need from me?
5. What is your average closing timeline, and how do you communicate throughout the process?   (Speed + communication = everything in this market.)

If you already know the home you want to see, that’s exciting — but before we can schedule anything, there’s a new national rule you need to know.

Not after. Not later. Before you step inside.

This applies to every Realtor in the United States. If someone isn’t asking you to sign one… they’re not following the law.

If you want a buyer’s agent — someone who represents you, answers your questions, protects your interests, and fights for you — then this national rule applies, and you must sign a Buyer Agency Agreement before any showings.

The only ways around this are:

• Calling the listing agent directly (they represent the seller, not you), or
• Hoping there’s an open house you can walk into without representation

If you want your own agent — someone on your side — the agreement is required.

When a buyer signs a Buyer Representation Agreement, they are agreeing to three main things — and none of them are scary when explained correctly.

You're saying: “You’re the Realtor I want representing me, advising me, and protecting me.”

This means you we for YOU — not the seller.

The agreement clearly states:

• How your commission works
• Who is expected to pay it
• What happens if the seller doesn’t offer enough

We make it simple: WE always request/suggest the seller include your commission in the price so the buyer isn’t paying out of pocket.

This is the part buyers want:

• We negotiate for you
• We point out red flags
• We protect your money
• We guide you through inspections, contracts, and strategy
• We help avoid costly mistakes

You're agreeing to let us fight for them — and that’s a good thing.

This is important too:

• You are not agreeing to buy a house
• You are not locked into a specific property
• You are not forced to continue if you are unhappy
• You are not paying anything upfront

It’s simply a professional relationship agreement — the same way you would sign with an attorney, accountant, or financial advisor.

Because buyers were unknowingly walking into homes unrepresented, thinking every agent worked for them. They didn’t. And buyers were getting hurt financially.

This agreement forces clarity:

• Who represents who
• Who protects who
• Who negotiates for who

If they want someone on their side, this is the rule.

At Copper Cove Realty, we keep it simple and transparent: We always request that the seller includes our commission in the asking price so you’re not paying out of pocket.

👉  Consumer Guide to Written Buyer Agreements 

It’s short, clear, and required nationwide — no exceptions.