A year after the National Association of Realtors settled a lawsuit, real estate commissions have failed to budge significantly. The average commission rate dropped from 5.64% to 4.96%, according to research by RISMedia.
The settlement prohibited brokers from advertising commissions on shared industry databases. However, sellers still offer to pay 5-6% in commissions, split between their broker and the buyer’s broker. Buyers are now responsible for ensuring their agent gets paid, but sellers can provide concessions, such as defraying some or all of the commission.
According to Redfin data, 44% of sellers recently provided concessions to buyers. This has sparked concerns that agents’ expertise is worth the cost. The National Association of Realtors claims it will not allow any attempts to circumvent the settlement.
Industry experts warn that changes will take place slowly as some brokers work to preserve the old system. Watchdogs suggest discussing agent pay in dollars, rather than percentages, which can save buyers and sellers thousands.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/05/17/realtor-commission-broker-fee