Seller Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions after the NAR settlement with this detailed FAQ.
Do I have to offer compensation to a buyer agent?
No. You have never had to do that. Compensation has always been negotiable and remains that way. You decide what you want to pay, if anything.
Will you take less compensation if I have to pay a buyer agent too?
No. You agreed to pay me compensation to list and sell your property based on the service package I offer. If you are not agreeable to the packages and compensation with that package I offer, I'm more than happy to refer you to an agent who will be more accommodating to your needs.
What if the buyer can't afford to pay their agent?
Prepare to be asked in the offer that you compensate the buyer agent on behalf of the buyer. Buyers are accustomed to their buyer agent compensation being fulfilled by the listing broker co-broke or sharing of listing broker compensation. With that not being an option, let's figure out the buyer agent compensation as a case-by-case situation depending on the offers you receive. Some common strategies for buyers are to request you to pay their buyer agent, which reduces your net proceeds, or they will offer a bit more than list price and ask for seller concession for that amount to allow them to "roll" it into their mortgage so the underwriter will approve it. The best approach is to focus on what you pay us to list and sell your house, then worry about the terms like buyer agent compensation on a case-by-case basis.
What if the buyer doesn't have an agent and wants to just have you do everything?