How Much Commission Does a Realtor Make in FL?
By: ROS Team
In the sunny state of Florida, the real estate market is as diverse as its beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re buying your dream beachfront property, selling your family home, or navigating the intricate world of real estate investments, one question that inevitably arises is, “How much commission does a Realtor make in Florida?” In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of the Florida Real Estate Commission.
Realtor Commissions in Florida
Realtor commissions are not a one-size-fits-all affair in Florida, as in many other states. They can vary based on several factors and having a clear grasp of how these commissions work is crucial for anyone embarking on a real estate journey in the state.
Average Commission for Realtors in Florida
The average Florida realtor commission is 5.40% of the sale price, which is split evenly between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. This means that each agent would typically earn 2.70% of the sale price.
However, it’s important to note that real estate commissions are negotiable, and some agents may be willing to work for a lower rate, especially if they are new to the business or if they are trying to attract more clients.
Factors Influencing Florida Realtor Commission:
Several factors can influence the commission rates Realtors charge in Florida:
1. Market Conditions:
Commission rates may fluctuate depending on whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market. In a seller’s market with high demand and low inventory, Realtors may have more negotiating power and may command higher commissions.
2. Property Value:
The value of the property can also impact the commission rate. High-value properties might have slightly lower commission percentages due to the larger overall payout.
3. Realtor Experience and Reputation:
Established Realtors with a strong track record and a reputable brand may charge higher commission rates than newer or less-experienced agents.
How Real Estate Commissions Are Typically Split In Florida – Example
Here is an example of how real estate commissions are typically split in Florida:
- Seller’s Agent Commission: 2.70% of the sale price
- Buyer’s Agent Commission: 2.70% of the sale price
- Listing Brokerage Commission: 50% of the seller’s agent commission
- Buyer’s Brokerage Commission: 50% of the buyer’s agent commission
- Realtor Commission: 60% of the listing or buyer brokerage commission
So, if a home sells for $500,000, the seller’s agent would typically earn $13,500 in commission, and the buyer’s agent would typically earn $13,500 in commission.
The listing brokerage would earn $6,750, and the buyer’s brokerage would earn $6,750. The seller’s and buyer’s agents would keep $8,100, which is 60% of their brokerage’s commission.
Can You Negotiate Realtor Fees In Florida?
Realtor fees in Florida can indeed be negotiated. It’s important to keep in mind that real estate commissions are not fixed. Both buyers and sellers have the opportunity to discuss and reach an agreement on a lower commission rate with their agents.
When buyers are interested, they may consider negotiating a commission rebate. This occurs when their agent agrees to give back a portion of the commission earned. For instance, an agent might agree to return 1% of their commission, resulting in significant savings for the buyer on their home purchase.
If one is a seller, they have the option to negotiate for a lower commission rate with their listing agent. Alternatively, they can explore negotiating a flat fee instead of a percentage-based commission. Flat fees are generally lower than commissions based on percentages, although they are not as commonly used.
How to Choose a Realtor?
When choosing a realtor, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Experience: How many years of experience does the realtor have?
- Reputation: What is the realtor’s reputation in the community?
- Communication style: Do you feel comfortable communicating with the realtor?
- Commission rate: What commission rate does the realtor charge?
Realtor Commission Florida: Takeaway
Understanding how much commission a Realtor makes is not just a matter of curiosity; it’s critical information for anyone looking to buy or sell property in Florida. Being well-informed and proactive can ensure a positive and financially sound real estate experience.