In response to significant changes in real estate practices, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has released a comprehensive library of consumer education guides covering essential topics from written buyer agreements and agent relationships to home inspections and insurance considerations. The guides serve both first-time and experienced homebuyers with detailed information about each step of the buying process, emphasizing transparent communication between consumers and REALTORS® while highlighting key changes in how real estate professionals will work with clients.
Consumer Guide to Written Buyer Agreements
When searching for a home, you will be asked to sign a written buyer agreement after you’ve chosen the real estate professional you want to work with.
Consumer Guide to Open Houses and Written Agreements
Real estate professionals nationwide will require a written agreement prior to touring a home. But what if you are just attending an open house?
REALTORS’® Duty to Put Client Interests Above Their Own
NAR’s Code of Ethics means that a REALTOR® cannot provide representation in a way that puts their own interests ahead of their clients’ interests.
Consumer Guide: What Veterans Need To Know about Buying a Home
REALTORS® are committed to helping ensure the unique needs of veterans and active servicemembers are met following new real estate practice changes.
Consumer Guide to Negotiating Written Buyer Agreements
Here’s what to know about negotiating an agreement for services and compensation with an agent who is a REALTOR®.
Consumer Guide: Multiple Listing Services (MLSs)
When buying or selling a home, your agent may use an MLS to find homes for sale or market your property. Here’s what you need to know.
Consumer Guide: Fair Housing
Consumers and agents all have rights and responsibilities to promote a home buying or selling process free from discrimination.
Consumer Guide: 10 Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent
If you’re ready to buy a home, you should feel empowered to find and work with the agent who is the best fit for your needs.
Consumer Guide: Buying Your First Home
You’re ready to find your first home. Find out where to begin and what resources are available to you as you embark on your homeownership journey.
Consumer Guide: Mortgages and Financing
An agent who is a REALTOR® can help you learn about options for finding a loan that will help you pay for your new home over time.
Consumer Guide: Steps Between Signing and Closing
Once you sign a purchase agreement on your new home, there are still several steps to complete before you can finalize—or “close”—the transaction.
Consumer Guide: Agency and Non-Agency Relationships
When buying or selling a home, agency and non-agency relationships with real estate professionals vary by state law and offer different options.
Consumer Guide: The Appraisal Process
If you are financing your home purchase, you will likely be required to get a home appraisal as one of the steps between signing and close.
Consumer Guide: Home Inspections
Between signing and close, a buyer may have a home inspected to ensure it is in good condition and safe for a new owner. Here’s what you should know.
Consumer Guide: Homeowners Insurance
Understanding homeowners insurance is essential for anyone looking to purchase a home. Here’s what you need to know.
Consumer Guide: Flood Insurance
Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S. A licensed insurance agent can advise you on how to protect your assets. Find out what you need to know.
Consumer Guide: Fire Damage and Policy Coverage
Most homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage. Some may limit coverage if your risk is higher. Here’s what you need to know about understanding your coverage.
Navigating the home buying process has become increasingly complex, with new requirements for written agreements, evolving agency relationships, and important insurance considerations. These NAR consumer guides provide an essential roadmap for buyers at every stage—from understanding initial agreements and fair housing practices to managing inspections and securing appropriate insurance coverage.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, veteran, or experienced purchaser, these comprehensive resources help you make informed decisions while working with REALTORS® who are committed to upholding the highest professional standards. By familiarizing yourself with these guides and partnering with a qualified REALTOR®, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the path to homeownership with confidence and clarity in today’s dynamic real estate market.
