The short answer:  Often, yes, but it’s now more openly negtiable.

Here’s something most sellers do not know, It has always been negotiable.  However for years it was usually presented to both buyer and sellers as a standard practice.  The commission structure was often treated as automatic, even though legally it never was.

Now with recent changes in real estate practices (including the National Association of Realtors settlement), the flexibility is being presented upfront, as it should have been all along.

• Sellers are not required to offer to pay the buyer’s agent, though many still do as part of their marketing strategy
• Buyer’s agent commissions are now openly discussed and directly negotiated, MLS platforms no longer automatically display these offers
• Buyers are now more aware that they may be responsible for paying their agent’s fee if the seller chooses not to offer compensation

Offering compensation to the buyer’s agent can:

• Attract more buyers to your home
• Make your property more competitive especially for for first time buyers who may not have extra cash to pay their agent directly
• Help avoid additional buyer concessions later (such as request to cover the agents fee through the purchase price or seller credits)

It’s all about crating the right strategy for your specific home and your local market.

When we meet to discuss selling your home, we’ll review:

• The Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement

• Your options for buyer’s agent compensation

• What’s working in the current Monroe County market

You are always in control of these choices. I’m here to guide you through the options and help you make the decision that aligns best with your goals.