What Ohio's New Written Buyer Agency Agreement Law Means for Home Buyers in Dayton

If you are planning to buy a home in Dayton, Centerville, Beavercreek, or anywhere else in Ohio this year, there is an important change you need to know about. Starting in 2026, Ohio law requires every home buyer to sign a written buyer agency agreement before a real estate agent can show you a single property or submit an offer on your behalf.

This is a significant shift from how things used to work. In the past, buyers often worked with an agent informally — touring homes, visiting open houses, and asking questions without ever signing paperwork. Under the new law, that casual approach is no longer an option. And honestly, that is a good thing for buyers.

What the New Law Actually Requires

Ohio House Bill 466, which took effect in 2026, mandates that every real estate agent who provides buyer services must first enter into a written agreement with the buyer. This agreement must be signed before the agent shows any property, prepares an offer, or performs any work that goes beyond an initial consultation.

The agreement covers the scope of services the agent will provide, how long the agreement lasts, how the agent gets paid, and what happens if the buyer decides to work with someone else. It creates a clear, transparent framework for the buyer-agent relationship from day one.

Why Ohio Passed This Law

Before HB 466, some buyers were unaware of who was representing them or how their agent was compensated. In certain situations, buyers discovered at closing that their agent was being paid by the seller — raising questions about whose interests were really being served. The new law ensures that buyers enter their agent relationship with full knowledge and signed consent.

This is part of a broader national trend toward consumer protection in real estate. Similar requirements already exist in several other states, and Ohio's law puts the focus squarely on transparency.

What This Means for Dayton Home Buyers

If you are starting your home search in Greater Dayton, here is what you can expect. When you reach out to a brokerage like Glasshouse Realty, the first step will be a sit-down conversation. We will talk about your goals, your budget, the neighborhoods you are interested in — Kettering, Oakwood, Centerville, Troy, Wilmington, or anywhere else — and what you need from an agent.

Once we understand your needs, we will present a written buyer agency agreement that spells out exactly how we will work together. You will see the terms, the time frame, and how compensation works before any homes are shown. There are no surprises and no hidden arrangements.

Key Questions to Ask Before You Sign

A buyer agency agreement is a legal contract, and you should understand every part of it before signing. Here are the most important questions to ask:

• How long does this agreement last? Most agreements run 30 to 90 days. Make sure the term gives you enough time to find a home without locking you in indefinitely.
• How is the agent compensated? Understand whether the fee comes from the seller, from you directly, or from a combination. Some agreements may include a retainer or a fee if the seller does not cover the commission.
• What happens if I buy a home after the agreement expires? Some agreements include a "protection period" that covers homes the agent introduced you to, even after the term ends.
• Does this agreement limit me to working with one agent exclusively? Most buyer agency agreements are exclusive, meaning you agree to work only with that agent. This ensures your agent can dedicate time and resources to your search.
• What if I am not satisfied? Ask about the process for terminating the agreement early if things are not working out.

Does This Mean You Cannot Tour Homes on Your Own?

No. You can still visit public open houses and browse listings online without signing anything. But the moment you ask an agent to schedule a private showing, write an offer, or represent you in negotiations, a signed agreement must be in place.

Think of it this way: the agreement protects both you and the agent. It clarifies expectations, establishes trust, and ensures that everyone is on the same page before the process gets underway.

How Glasshouse Realty Approaches Buyer Representation

At Glasshouse Realty, we have always believed that the best client relationships start with clarity. Our agents take the time to understand your specific situation before any paperwork is presented. Whether you are buying your first home in Xenia, upgrading to a larger property in Springboro, or relocating to the Dayton area from out of state, we will walk you through every detail of the agreement and answer every question.

The new law reinforces what we already practice: honest, transparent, client-first representation. For us, it is not just about compliance. It is about making sure every Dayton home buyer feels informed, confident, and well served from the very first conversation.

This article provides general information about Ohio's written buyer agency agreement requirements and is not intended as legal advice. For specific questions about your situation, consult a qualified real estate attorney or reach out to our team directly.