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What is a Designated Buyer Representation Agreement?

The journey to find your dream home is an exciting one, whether you’re envisioning a sleek condo in the heart of the city or a charming brick house in the peaceful suburbs. As a buyer, it’s essential to be well-informed and educated at every step of the real estate transaction. During this process, your real estate agent may request you to sign a crucial document known as the Designated Buyer Representation Agreement (BDBA), even if the reasons behind it may not be immediately clear. Allow me to offer you a concise overview of what a buyer representation agreement entails to guide you through this aspect of the home-buying journey.

Understanding the Designated Buyer Representation Agreement (BDBA)

This document is a written contract that defines the relationship between you and the real estate brokerage, and how the real estate agent will represent your best interests. It outlines the services your real estate agent provides and what they expect from you, including:

  • The agent’s duties and obligations to the buyer
  • Agency relationships
  • The scope of the agent’s duties
  • Buyer obligations
  • Designated Brokerage obligations

Homebuyers will sign a BDBA when they are working with a real estate agent and are ready to make an offer on a home. By agreeing to this, you authorize your real estate agent to act as your advocate during the home-buying process. Benefits include:

  • Representation :It guarantees that your real estate agent acts in accordance with the obligations outlined in your contract and acts in your best interests. They can manage several aspects of the home-buying process, such as negotiating, inspecting, and paperwork, on your behalf.
  • Clarify :By outlining exactly what you may anticipate from your real estate agent and from them, a BDBA formalizes your professional relationship.
  • Negotiable: You can work out most of the details of a BDBA with your real estate agent.

The agreement must ultimately be written with your signature in order to be protected by all parties. Like everything else you sign, it’s crucial to properly discuss and comprehend the services offered, and the clarity of the written agreement. A BDBA is often signed prior to your working with the real estate agent.

Most of us will never engage in a transaction as large as buying a home. It truly is the single biggest investment you will make. Working with a seasoned and competent real estate agent is crucial for this reason.


Hello there! I’m Alisha Caillie-Fleet, a seasoned Real Estate Agent located in Halifax. With a sales history dating back to 2014 across Nova Scotia and Ontario, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. My specialization includes residential properties, investment opportunities, and military relocations. I’ve wholeheartedly committed myself to honing my skills to ensure that your experience of buying or selling a home is seamless and free of stress.

Being a military spouse, I also have personal insight into the challenges military families are confronted with. As a result, I’ve developed a tailored approach to cater to the unique demands of the DND moving process.

Let’s establish a connection and have a conversation about your real estate goals!