While commercial brokers are no strangers to formal agreements, this law forces a more structured and transparent approach to buyer representation. In some ways, this is a good thing.

As of Jan. 1, 2025, California law mandates a written buyer-broker representation agreement for buyer’s brokers to receive a commission in real property sales.

While commercial brokers are no strangers to formal agreements, this law forces a more structured and transparent approach to buyer representation. In some ways, this is a good thing.

California Assembly Bill 2992, newly effective in 2025, requires real estate agents representing buyers to enter into a written buyer-broker contract with their clients. (iStockphoto/Getty Images) ...