Do sellers always pay commission to agents?

No, and this has always been negotiable. The common perception that sellers always pay both sides' commission became a market norm, but it was never a law or a requirement. Since the NAR settlement in 2024, the structure has shifted even further. Sellers negotiate their own listing agent's fee. Buyer agent compensation is no longer automatically offered through the MLS. Sellers can choose to offer buyer agent compensation, offer nothing, or negotiate it as part of the offer terms. In practice, many sellers still offer something to the buyer's side to maximize exposure and attract agents to bring their buyers. But the amount is fully negotiable and some sellers are choosing to offer nothing and letting the buyer handle their own agent's fee.

In the case of fsbo, no. Commissions are always negotiable. It really comes down to protection, efficiency of the entire transaction. An agent protects you in all ways, legally and in negotiations. Most wouldn't go into court and represent themselves. Wouldn't go well. That's the same here. If you are a fsbo, you don't have to pay anyone a commission, but will it sell, and will it sell at top dollar? Will you get sued? If you are selling as an FSBO and you don't deal with buyer agents, then you are taking 1/2 of your potential buyers and offers. Could really effect the bottom line. I've given up .25, .5% and $1500 on my commissions to make it work on both sides. Take are and good luck!

Good Morning, 98 % of the time seller pays commission to the agents. On a rare occasion I have seen the buyer pay the commission to sweeten the offer. Any other questions let me know. Nancy Call