Your Guide to the Working With Real Estate Brokers Brochure and Disclosure Form in North Carolina

How to Properly Use the “Working With Real Estate Brokers” Brochure and Disclosure Form: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

If you’re buying or selling a home in North Carolina, you’ll likely be handed a document called the “Working With Real Estate Brokers: Questions and Answers” brochure, along with a separate Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships form.

These documents can be confusing, and some people mistakenly believe signing them means they’re locked into a contract or obligated to pay money. That is not true. Let’s break down exactly what these documents are, why they matter, and how to use them properly.

What Is the “Working With Real Estate Brokers” Brochure?

The Working With Real Estate Brokers brochure is a consumer protection document issued by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC). It’s designed to help you understand:

✅ The types of brokerage relationships available (e.g., buyer’s broker, seller’s broker, dual broker)

✅ How brokers are required to treat you based on the relationship you choose

✅ Your rights and obligations as a buyer or seller

This brochure is purely informational. It exists to help you make informed choices about who represents your interests in a real estate transaction.

What Is the Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships Form?

Along with the brochure, your broker will also present you with a Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships form (sometimes referred to as the “WWREB Disclosure Form”).

This form:

• Confirms that your broker has explained the different types of brokerage relationships to you.

• Documents whether you’ve chosen to work with that broker as your buyer’s broker, seller’s broker, or in another capacity.

• Is required by law before discussing confidential information about your property needs, financial situation, motivation, or negotiating positions.

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Important: Signing this form does not mean you are entering into a contract or agreeing to pay money. It’s simply an acknowledgment that your broker explained your options.

Why Consumers Worry About These Forms

It’s common for buyers and sellers to feel nervous when they see an official form or something requiring a signature. Many people think:

“If I sign this, I’m committing to hire this broker and pay them money.”

That’s not the case.

• The brochure is purely for your information.

• The Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships form only confirms that you’ve received information about how brokerage relationships work.

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Neither document obligates you to work with that broker, sign an exclusive agreement, or pay any fees. A contract, like a listing agreement or buyer agency agreement—is a separate document altogether.

It’s Not Enough to Just Email the Link

A common mistake is brokers simply sending a link to the brochure in an email or text message and assuming that satisfies the requirement. That is not acceptable under North Carolina law.

In North Carolina, brokers are required to review the brochure with you at first substantial contact. This means they must actively explain:

• The different types of brokerage relationships available.

• The duties owed to you under each type of relationship.

• How the brokerage relationship affects the services provided to you.

Merely providing a link without a discussion does not meet the legal requirement. You have a right to ask questions and ensure you fully understand your choices before moving forward.

How to Use These Documents Properly

Here’s how to handle these forms with confidence:

1. Read the Brochure Carefully

Don’t rush through it. The brochure answers questions such as:

• What does a buyer’s broker do?

• What happens if the same broker represents both buyer and seller?

• Can I work with multiple brokers?

If anything is unclear, ask your broker to explain it in plain language.

2. Ask Questions Before Signing Anything

When your broker presents the Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships form:

• Clarify the differences between each brokerage relationship.

• Confirm that you’re simply acknowledging receipt of information—not signing a contract.

• Make sure you understand before signing.

3. Keep a Copy for Your Records

Always request a copy of both the brochure and the signed disclosure form. It’s your right to have these for your records.

Why This Matters

Understanding these documents protects your interests. For example, if you accidentally share confidential details with a broker who represents the other side, it could weaken your negotiating position.

By establishing your brokerage relationship upfront, you ensure:

• You know who is representing your interests.

• You get advice tailored to your goals.

• You avoid misunderstandings later in the transaction.

The Bottom Line

The Working With Real Estate Brokers brochure and the Disclosure of Brokerage Relationships form are valuable consumer protection tools. They do not obligate you to pay money, sign a contract, or work with any particular broker.

And remember: Brokers are legally required to review this information with you, not just email you a link. It’s your right as a consumer to have these materials explained so you can make informed decisions in one of life’s biggest financial transactions.

If you have any questions about these forms or brokerage relationships, don’t hesitate to reach out. A professional broker will always take the time to make sure you’re comfortable and fully informed before moving forward.