There’s been a revolution in real estate in recent years. Unfortunately, many customers are still in the dark about it. Ellen Roseman writing in Moneyville talks about working exclusively with a real estate agent to buy property and buyer agency agreements agreements.

Here's an example of her answers to frequently asked questions about a buyer’s relationship with a realtor:

Q: I was shocked to hear I had to sign a three-month exclusive contract with a real estate agent in order to submit an offer or even to look at property. This was supposed to cover the time and expenses in finding the right home. Do I have to sign?

A: No, you don’t have to sign an exclusive contract with a real estate agent when buying a home. It’s your choice.

The law requires buyers to sign a document, called Working with a Realtor, at the earliest practical opportunity. It’s better to have a conversation about it when you start looking at homes together, rather than in the hectic time before you submit an offer.

Having an exclusive contract, known as a buyer representation agreement (BRA), is just one of the ways you can work with a realtor. If you prefer not to sign, look for someone who won’t insist on exclusivity.

You can negotiate the contract terms, such as signing for a shorter period than three months (even a month or 10 days). You can limit the contract to a specific property, street or neighbourhood, if the agent agrees.