Real estate agents are paid to assist buyers and sellers in the sale of their properties.

These fees are usually paid by the seller. These fees are usually a percentage of the sale or a flat fee. They can also be split equally between the seller’s and buyer’s agents.

Let’s examine how Realtors are paid, what they make from each sale and the services they offer.

What is a Realtor?

Realtors are just real estate professionals, agents or brokers who have registered with National Association of Realtors. NAR is a professional association that has educational requirements and adheres to a code for its members.

Buyers and Sellers can work with agents and brokers who are Realtors, or not-Realtor agents, and should get similar services. All must adhere to state laws regarding minimum service requirements.

They can assist sellers in marketing properties and finding buyers. They may also review contracts and negotiate offers, as well as assist in closing transactions.

FAST FACT

What is the difference between a real estate agent and a broker?

Real Estate brokers are licensed to not only sell property but also manage businesses, such as an agency.

Agents can help buyers and sellers in real estate transactions. However, they may need to be partnered with licensed brokers to complete certain aspects.

What are Realtors’ Fees and How Do They Work?

Traditional real estate transactions typically involve a seller paying a commission of 5% to 6 percent of the home’s purchase price. This amount is usually divided equally between the buyer and seller’s agents.

Agents and brokers on both sides usually have standard fees. However, sellers can negotiate.

A listing agreement between a seller and an agent may specify a time frame for the agreement to be in force. The seller could still be required to pay the commission if he or she withdraws from the agreement prior to the expiration of the time period.

Agents selling to buyers and sellers may be permitted to offer a rebate equaling a portion of their commission. However, state laws might restrict when and how the rebate can be advertised and paid.

What else can real estate agents earn?

Fee-for-service agreements are an alternative to full service brokerage firms. Real estate professionals who work under fee-for-service arrangements can charge specific items instead of paying a fixed commission for a package of services.

Brokers and agents may be charged separately for services such as listing the property on the Multiple Listing Service (or MLS), negotiating a purchase agreement, or advising about pricing.

This can save sellers money as they only pay for the services they use, rather than paying an hourly fee or a flat rate for each.

What are the services offered by real estate agents?

Traditional full-service agents or brokers in real estate have offered a range of services in return for a commission.

These are just a few of the services that are usually included in this price.

• Marketing a property and listing it on the local MLS
• Examining purchase and sale agreements
• Negotiating terms of sale for their clients
• Organise for potential buyers to view properties
• Provide property information to potential buyers
• Helping buyers understand their financing options
• Assisting in the handling of paperwork necessary to close the transaction

Are real estate agents paid if there is no sale?

If the property does not sell, sellers are usually not required to pay a fee. However, sellers may have to pay a commission if they cancel a listing agreement before the agent releases them. This is assuming that the sale takes place during the period the agreement should have been in force.

Buyers who don’t enter into a contract to purchase a home usually don’t have any obligation to their agent unless they sign an agreement to the contrary.

Next steps

It can be easier to sell or buy a house if you find the right agent. You may even find that the commission fees are worth it for all the help you receive.

Find out how to find the right real estate agent for you. This will allow you to get the help you need whether you are selling or buying a home.