agency

ready willing and able buyer

A ready, willing, and able buyer is one who is prepared to buy on the seller's terms, wants to buy, and has the financial ability to complete the purchase. Under many listing agreements and common law, a broker has earned the commission by producing such a buyer, even if the seller then refuses to sell. The specific terms of the listing agreement can change when the commission is due.

Exam tip
Producing a ready, willing, and able buyer on the listing terms typically earns the commission even if the seller backs out. Check whether the listing agreement adds conditions.
Example
A broker brings a buyer offering full price in cash with proof of funds, but the seller changes her mind; the broker may still be owed a commission.

Related terms & state variants

Sources

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Last verified: 2026-10-23