If you're looking to rent or buy a home in New York, you may be asked to sign an agency disclosure—either the Landlord and Tenant Agency Disclosure for rentals or the Buyer and Seller Agency Disclosure for purchases—along with the Housing and Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form.
We understand why this might raise questions.
Many renters and buyers worry that signing a form means they are applying for a property, agreeing to pay a broker fee, signing a lease or purchase contract, or committing to work with a particular broker.
That is not what acknowledging these disclosures means.
These forms are intended to provide information and clarity, not create pressure.
What Are These Forms?
The Agency Disclosure Form explains the role of the real estate broker or agent involved in the process.
It helps clarify whether the broker represents the seller/landlord, the buyer/tenant, or both sides with proper disclosure and consent.
The Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form explains fair housing protections under federal, state, and local law.
It reminds buyers, renters, landlords, sellers, brokers, and agents that housing discrimination is illegal.
These forms are part of New York’s real estate process.
If you're interested in purchasing a property we represent on behalf of a seller, you may receive an agency disclosure even if you don't have your own agent. This helps clarify who we represent.
Why You May Not Have Seen These Forms Before
Some people are surprised when they are asked to sign these forms.
But in New York, these disclosures are required in applicable real estate transactions.
If you have rented or purchased property before and were never shown these forms, that does not necessarily mean the forms are new or unusual.
It may mean the disclosure step was overlooked, or that your previous transaction involved different circumstances.
These forms help consumers understand who the broker represents and what fair housing protections apply.
What These Forms Are Not
Simply acknowledging receipt of these disclosure forms does not mean you are applying for an apartment or making an offer to purchase.
It does not mean you are signing a lease or purchase contract.
It does not mean you are agreeing to pay a broker fee.
It does not mean Destination Real Estate is your exclusive agent.
It does not mean you are required to rent or purchase a property.
It does not mean you are required to move forward with us.
It does not mean you are making any payment commitment.
When you sign to acknowledge receipt, you're confirming that the required disclosures were provided to you.
The Agency Disclosure Form may also include an option to consent to dual agency. This is a separate decision from simply acknowledging receipt and should be understood before agreeing.
Is There a Fee to Complete These Forms?
No.
There is no fee to complete the Agency Disclosure Form or the Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form.
These forms are not payment agreements.
They are not broker fee agreements.
They are disclosures required as part of the real estate process in New York.
Why Does Destination Real Estate Ask for These Forms?
New York requires real estate professionals to provide certain disclosures during the rental and purchase process.
We follow that requirement.
We also want renters and buyers to understand what they are signing before they sign it.
Searching for a home in New York can feel stressful. People are often asked to move quickly, provide documents, and make decisions under pressure.
That is why we try to be clear upfront.
Our goal is to make the process easier to understand.
A Simple Way to Think About It
Acknowledging receipt of these disclosure forms generally means:
“I received the required information.”
It does not mean:
“I agree to pay a broker fee.”
It does not mean:
“I am applying for this apartment or making an offer to purchase.”
It does not mean:
“I am locked into working with this company.”
It does not mean:
“I am agreeing to rent or buy this property.”
It does not mean:
“I am making Destination Real Estate my exclusive broker.”
Why These Forms Matter
These forms are meant to protect consumers.
The Agency Disclosure Form helps you understand the role of the broker or agent.
The Anti-Discrimination Disclosure Form helps remind everyone involved that renters and buyers have fair housing rights and must be treated lawfully.
This matters in New York, where rental and sales transactions can move quickly and where people deserve clear information before making decisions.
What Should You Do If You Have Questions?
If you are unsure about any form, please ask us before signing.
We would rather explain the document clearly than have you feel uncertain.
You should always understand what you are signing, whether you're renting or buying a home.