| When you agree to a listing agreement, the listing agent negotiates a commission for the real estate transaction. The percentage that you agree on is typically split between the listing agent's company and the buyer's agent company. Then, based upon the agreements that the agents have with their companies, they receive compensation at the close of escrow paid out of the seller's proceeds. Q.) Are real estate commissions set by law? A.) No. They are negotiable between the real estate professional and the home seller. Yes, will find some agents that charge a lower sales commission than the going rate, but these agents may find it difficult to attract other agents to show their listings. Your listing agent is going to play an important role in your sale throughout the transaction. Their skills to get you the highest possible price and communicate to you and the other agent who represents the buyer will be critical. "You Get What You Pay For" Remember, what your mother or father use to say "you get what you pay for". That is true in every part of life. If some one was going to sue you for $500,000, would you hire the best lawyer you could find or a discount lawyer? The best lawyer may cost a little more but they will represent your best interests. The same is true with real estate. You need an agent that is willing to fight and negotiate for your best interests. Someone who is experienced, communicates in a consulting style putting your needs first and has the expertise to solve problems. Top real estate professionals are not discount brokers. Be careful of the agents, who are willing to discount their commissions just to get your property listed for sale. The question is...how willing are they to negotiate on your behalf to get you the highest and best price when it comes to selling your home? | 
