Answers by Rose Lupercio

You can call the listing agent or go to an open house for free. If you want your own Realtor to represent you, you will likely need to sign a buyer-broker agreement first, and compensation will be agreed to in writing under the new California law.

You can write a letter in California, but it should focus strictly on the home and transaction details. Avoid any personal information that could reveal protected characteristics under Fair Housing laws.