10k Guarantee

Three Approaches to Saving on Commissions

Commission Options Overview

Commissions are directly negotiated between homebuyers and agents, ensuring flexibility and transparency. This website doesn’t set fees or commissions—it’s a platform where you and your chosen agent determine what works best for you. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a specific credit or rebate amount, or choose a flat fee for all real estate services.

When to Negotiate Your Commission Options:

  • During the Property Tour:
    Choose an agent using our Buyer-Broker Agreement to Show form, which minimizes your obligations. When you meet the agent, ask questions, explore their services, and negotiate commission details if you decide to work with them. If the match isn’t right, simply return to our list and select another agent.

  • Initial Contact:
    Alternatively, pick an agent and reach out via email or phone. Share what you’re looking for in a home and what qualities you seek in an agent, then inquire about their willingness to negotiate commissions.

This approach empowers you to choose an agent who not only meets your needs but is also open to discussing commission terms that work for you.

 1. Specific $ Amount as a Credit or Rebate. 

Negotiate a set dollar amount that will be applied either as a credit toward your closing costs or as a cash rebate.

For example, if you’re shopping for a $500,000 home and the typical buyer-agent commission at 2.5% comes to $12,500, you might negotiate a fixed credit or rebate of between $2,500 and $4,500.

This arrangement ensures you receive that exact dollar amount as a credit or rebate, regardless of the commission percentage the seller offers (unless minimum commission terms are specified). Even if the seller offers a 2% commission—totaling $10,000—you still receive your agreed-upon credit or rebate.

2. One Flat Fee for all Services

Another approach is to agree on a single flat fee for all real estate services. The difference between the standard commission and your negotiated flat fee can then be applied toward closing costs or returned as a rebate.

For instance, if you’re shopping for a $500,000 home, a typical buyer-agent commission of 2.5% would amount to $12,500. By negotiating a flat fee between $8,000 and $10,000, you could save between $2,500 and $4,500.

Furthermore, if the seller offers a 3% commission, you’ll benefit even more. A 3% commission on a $500,000 home is $15,000; subtracting your flat fee of $8,000 to $10,000 results in savings of $5,000 to $7,000.

3. Negotiate Commission %’s

Another option is to negotiate a commission %. 

For example, negotiate a 2% to 2.5% commission. If the sales price is $500,000, the typical buyer-agent commission is 2.5%, or $12,500. Negotiate 2.5% to break even, or negotiate 2% to save $2,500. 

Conditions that apply to all commissions.

Suggested Range Considerations:

  • The price range of the home.
  • Current market conditions.
  • Motivations of all parties involved.
  • Monies needed for closing.

Connect with an agent today for detailed terms or to negotiate your fees!

For All Three Options, the below applies:
  • Lender approval is required before a credit can be applied to closing costs.
  • Any money used towards closing costs directly saves you cash on closing.
  • Monies that cannot be used towards closing costs can be rebated to you at or after closing in the form of a check that can be used like cash.
  • Additional clauses can be added to address situations where the seller pays a lower than 2.5% commission.
  • Agents can impose a minimum commission.
  • If the seller offers less than a 2% commission for buyer agents, you can include clauses that cap your out-of-pocket commission expenses. For instance, a clause might limit your personal commission cost to just 1%, ensuring that if the seller’s commission doesn’t fully cover the buyer-agent fee, you won’t be responsible for more than that capped amount.

Refer to the Broker Terms Page for more information on options.