Do I still need to pay a buyer commission?

Dear clients and friends,

If you’re planning to sell your home this spring, you might be wondering: Do I still need to pay the buyer agent’s commission? It’s a great question, especially after all the industry changes over the past year.

The short answer is: no, you are not required to. But — and this is important — it might still be in your best financial interest to do so.

Why Should You Consider Paying the Buyer’s Agent?

Let’s take a step back and think about today’s market. Homes have appreciated significantly over the last few years, interest rates are higher, and buyers are already stretching their budgets. On top of that, they’re saving for larger down payments, paying loan closing costs, and now, in some cases, covering their own agent’s commission.

In short, buyers are facing a heavier financial burden than ever before. And when affordability is tight, every dollar matters to them.

What Does That Mean for You as a Seller?

When you offer to pay the buyer agent’s commission, you free up more of the buyer’s cash to put toward their down payment. That extra flexibility allows buyers to stretch a little higher on the price — meaning you can maximize your sales price.

In fact, there’s a smart way to structure it: often, the buyer’s agent commission is folded into a slightly higher sales price. That way, the buyer essentially finances the cost of the commission over the life of their mortgage — and you, as the seller, still walk away with the same net proceeds.

In Other Words:
Paying the buyer’s agent could be the key to unlocking a stronger offer and a better bottom line — without actually costing you more.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re considering selling this spring and want to make sure you’re positioned to get the best possible outcome, let’s connect. We’ll walk you through exactly how buyer agent compensation works now, and how we can craft a strategy tailored to your sale.

You don’t have to navigate the market changes alone — we’re here to help you succeed.