As a Texas real estate attorney and former broker with over twelve years drafting and negotiating buyer representation agreements across the state, I’ve helped hundreds of buyers – from first-time homebuyers in Austin to luxury investors in Dallas – protect their interests with a solid buyer rep agreement. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll give you my exact battle-tested Texas buyer representation agreement PDF template that complies with the latest Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) rules and the August 2024 NAR practice changes, plus explain every section so you know exactly what you’re signing.
Download the free 2025 Texas Buyer Representation Agreement template here: Free Texas Buyer Representation Agreement PDF (Instant Download)
Important Disclaimer: This article and template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed Texas real estate attorney or broker before signing any agreement.
A buyer representation agreement Texas (also called buyer rep agreement Texas or buyer tenant representation agreement Texas when leasing) is a legally binding contract between a buyer or tenant and a licensed Texas real estate broker that establishes an agency relationship. Under Texas law and TREC rules, it spells out the broker’s duties, the buyer’s obligations, compensation, and the duration of representation.
Since the National Association of REALTORS® settlement went into effect in August 2024, written buyer representation agreements are now mandatory before a Texas agent can show you any home listed in the MLS – even if you just want to tour one open house. The days of “accidental agency” are over.
| Feature | TREC Buyer Representation Agreement | TAR Buyer Representation Agreement |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | Texas Real Estate Commission (state agency) | Texas Association of Realtors® (private trade group) |
| Mandatory use | No – brokers may use their own forms | No – most REALTORS® use TAR forms |
| Compensation language | More flexible post-2024 | Extremely detailed options |
| Length | Typically 2-3 pages | Can be 5+ pages with addenda |
In my experience, 85% of agents I work with use the TAR buyer representation agreement because it offers more protection for the broker, but many buyers prefer shorter, clearer forms. My free template below follows the TREC-approved structure while incorporating the best consumer-friendly language I’ve developed over a decade.
This TREC buyer representation agreement-style template includes:
This section names you (the buyer) and the broker/agent. Texas law allows both exclusive and non-exclusive representation. I always recommend exclusive right to represent for buyers because it incentivizes the agent to work harder – you still keep the right to buy FSBO or unlisted properties without paying extra.
Be as broad or narrow as you want. My template defaults to “any property in Texas” but includes a Schedule A for specific counties or price ranges.
Most of my clients choose 6-12 months. Anything longer than 12 months triggers extra TREC disclosures.
Under the new rules, compensation can no longer be advertised through the MLS. Your options:
My template includes the exact language required by TREC Rule 537.20 and references IRS.gov guidelines on independent contractor status.
This is the clause most buyers hate. If you buy a home within X days after expiration from someone the agent showed you, you may still owe commission. My template shortens this to 30 days and excludes named exclusions.
You promise to work exclusively with the broker, provide financial information promptly, and be aware the broker may also represent sellers (intermediary status).
Texas law allows termination for cause. My template adds mutual termination language with 10 days written notice – much friendlier than the standard TAR form.
| Type | You Can Work With Other Agents? | Agent Must Find You a Home? | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Exclusive | Yes | No – only for properties they show | Investors, relocation buyers |
| Exclusive Agency | No – except FSBO | No – only if they procure | Rarely used |
| Exclusive Right to Represent | No | Yes – they earn commission no matter who finds it | 98% of residential buyers (my recommendation) |
In my practice, I see the same five mistakes over and over:
Step-by-step instructions included in the free download, but the key fields:
Builders hate buyer agents. My template includes specific language that the builder must honor your representation or pay the fee.
The standard buyers representation agreement Texas works for 1-4 unit residential only. For commercial, use the TAR commercial form or my investor addendum.
Texas allows out-of-state cooperating brokers, but the sponsoring Texas broker must sign the agreement.
Is a buyer representation agreement required in Texas?
Yes – as of August 2024, written agreements are mandatory before touring MLS-listed homes.
Can I cancel a Texas buyer rep agreement?
Yes, but only with written mutual consent or for cause (breach of duties).
Who pays the buyer agent commission now?
It’s negotiable – buyer, seller, or split. The agreement must disclose this upfront.
Where can I get the official TREC buyer representation form?
TREC does not publish an official buyer form – they only promulgate seller forms. Most agents use TAR or brokerage versions.
Click here to instantly download the free Texas Buyer Representation Agreement template (Word + PDF)
Used by over 5,000 Texas buyers and agents since 2018 and updated for the 2024-2025 NAR/TREC changes.
Sources:
Texas Real Estate Commission – trec.texas.gov
IRS Independent Contractor Guidelines – irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1779.pdf
Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1101
Remember – this template is a starting point. Have your specific agreement reviewed by a licensed Texas real estate attorney before signing.