Yes. In North Carolina, your agent must have a written buyer agreement with you before touring a home in person or virtually. This has been the rule since the NAR settlement practice changes took effect in August 2024. But signing something does not mean you are locked in: North Carolina has non-exclusive and showing-only options built for exactly this moment.
What exactly does the rule require?
Two things changed in August 2024. First, listing agents can no longer advertise offers of buyer-agent compensation on the MLS. Second, agents must have a written agreement with a buyer, spelling out services and compensation, before touring a home, in person or virtually. No agreement, no tour. That applies whether you found the agent or the agent found you.
Which agreement will I actually sign?
North Carolina gives you three paths, and the right one depends on how sure you are:
- Exclusive buyer agency (Form 201). One agent represents you for the search area and time period you agree on. This is the standard choice once you have picked your agent.
- Non-exclusive buyer agency (Form 203). You can work with the agent on specific homes or a limited area while you decide whether they are the right fit. A strong starting point if you are still choosing.
- Property showing agreement (Form 202). Covers touring only, for buyers who want to see homes before deciding on full representation.
What should I check before I sign anything?
Read three things closely. First, the compensation: the exact fee or rate and what it covers. Second, the term: North Carolina requires a definite start and end date, so make sure the window is reasonable for your search. Third, the type: confirm whether it is exclusive or non-exclusive, and what happens to the fee if a seller agrees to cover it. Ask your agent to walk through each one out loud. A good agent welcomes that conversation.
What if I'm not ready to commit to an agent?
You still have options. Under North Carolina license law, oral agency still covers everything short of touring: an agent can send you listings, meet you at the office to talk strategy, and discuss the market with no paperwork at all. And you can always walk through an open house with no agreement, since the listing agent is hosting. The written part kicks in when it is time to tour homes privately with your agent.
The bottom line
The agreement is not a trap; it is the receipt for a conversation you should want to have anyway. Know your fee, know your term, know your options, and start non-exclusive if you are still deciding. Then go tour with confidence.
Want someone to walk you through it before you sign? Book a call with me — no commitment required.
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