One question we often hear from property buyers is: “Why do I have to sign an agreement and discuss commission before viewing a property?”
The simple answer is that real estate agency is a professional service, and the agent’s time, knowledge and network are part of that service.
An agent may spend time searching for suitable properties, contacting property owners, arranging viewings, driving to properties, answering calls, communicating with sellers and helping move the transaction forward. The commission compensates the agent for this work and the role they play in facilitating the transaction.
In Ghana, 5% is commonly used as an industry standard for real estate agency commission, although the actual fee can be negotiated depending on the property, transaction and agreement between the parties.
This is why an agency agreement is important. Before a property is viewed, both the client and agent should understand the commission, who is responsible for paying it and when the commission becomes payable.
Signing an agreement before a viewing is therefore not simply about charging a fee. It establishes a clear professional relationship and helps protect both the client and the agent from misunderstandings later.
Whether you are buying from Ghana or from the diaspora, understanding the agency agreement and commission before viewing a property can make the entire process clearer and more professional.
At Landyn Properties, we believe our commission should be fair, transparent and competitive with the market, while reflecting the level of professional service we provide.
Related reading: Why Work With a Real Estate Agent When Buying a House? · Agent Involvement in Property Transactions · Buying With an Agent vs Directly From a Developer
Property circumstances and transaction requirements vary. Use this article to prepare better questions, then obtain advice from appropriately qualified professionals for your specific purchase.
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