Understanding Agent Commissions
as a First-Time Buyer
Confused about real estate agent commissions?
Learn how they work and how Seeking Agents™ helps you navigate costs with competitive rates.
Why Commissions Matter to You
Buying your first home is exciting, but costs like down payments, closing fees, and agent commissions can quickly add up. Traditionally, sellers covered both agents’ commissions by baking them into the sale price—but that’s no longer guaranteed. After the NAR settlement, sellers can choose not to offer anything to your agent, which means you might be the one footing the bill.
That shift could impact your budget. On a $300,000 home, a 2.5% buyer’s agent fee is $7,500—something you might now need to pay out of pocket. That’s where Seeking Agents™ comes in. By encouraging agents to compete for your business, we help you find better rates and keep your homebuying costs in check.
What Are Agent Commissions, Anyway?
Agent commissions are service fees—typically 5-6% of the home’s sale price—split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. For example, on a $250,000 home, that’s $12,500 to $15,000 total, usually split 2.5%-3% each.
Who pays? It varies. Sellers often used to cover both agents’ fees, but post-2025 rules allow them to opt out of paying your agent. If that happens, you’ll need to cover your agent’s share—unless you negotiate a different arrangement with the seller. Either way, knowing how commissions work gives you more control over your deal—and Seeking Agents™ gives you the leverage to negotiate with confidence.
How Seeking Agents™ Saves You Money
With the new commission rules, you decide what to pay your agent—before you even start touring homes. Instead of accepting standard rates, Seeking Agents™ lets agents compete for your business, often offering commissions as low as 1.5% or 2%.
How It Works:
- Enter your home criteria—location, budget, must-haves.
- Agents submit offers, adjusting their commission to win you over.
- You choose the best fit—no guesswork, just savings.
Example Savings:
- You agree to pay your agent 2% on a $275,000 home ($5,500).
- The seller offers 3% ($8,250).
- You pocket the extra $2,750—not your agent—thanks to the new NAR rule.
- If the seller offers nothing, Seeking Agents™ ensures you still get competitive rates, keeping your costs down.
Why pay more than you need to? Seeking Agents™ helps you save before you buy.
Take Control of Your Costs
Ready to save? With Seeking Agents™, you set your agent’s commission upfront and keep any extra from the seller. Start today and find an agent who fits your budget.
Explore more: How to Buy Your First Home Without Breaking the Bank