Who pays the buyer's agent now?
Before August 2024, the standard model was simple: the seller's agent commission included a portion earmarked for the buyer's agent, listed right on the MLS. That's gone.
Now, buyer's agents are required to sign a written agreement with their buyer before showing homes, spelling out how that agent gets paid — directly by the buyer, negotiated into the offer, or via a seller concession if one is offered.
Use the commission calculator's toggle to model your specific scenario — seller covers it, doesn't, or offers a partial concession.
FAQ
Who pays the buyer's agent commission?
Since the Aug 2024 NAR settlement, it's negotiated directly between the buyer and their agent — not automatically paid by the seller. Buyers sign a representation agreement upfront specifying how their agent gets paid.
Can a seller still offer to cover it?
Yes — sellers can still offer a concession toward the buyer's agent fee as a negotiating point, but it's no longer the MLS-listed default.
What if the buyer can't afford to pay their agent directly?
Some buyers negotiate the fee into the purchase offer, roll it into closing costs, or ask the seller for a concession. It varies by deal.