Commission is negotiable
In Florida there is no fixed commission. The rate and structure are set between the client and the brokerage in a written agreement. Any statement that a rate is 'standard' should be treated carefully.
Ask what services the fee covers: pricing, marketing, negotiation, transaction management and support.
What sellers pay
Sellers agree a listing commission with their brokerage. Industry rules now require that any compensation offered to a buyer's agent be stated and agreed in writing, and it is no longer a given that the seller pays it.
Discuss with your agent whether to offer compensation to buyer agents, because it can influence showings and offers.
What buyers pay
Buyers sign a representation agreement with their agent that states how the agent will be paid, either by the seller's offer, directly by the buyer, or a combination. Read it before you tour homes.
Ask for the fee in writing and what happens if the seller does not offer compensation.
How to compare agents
Compare experience in your area and property type, language skills, marketing plans, references and communication. A lower fee is not better if it comes with fewer services or weaker negotiation.
Check the agent's license on the state's license lookup.
Transparency and rules
Brokerages must follow state and national rules on disclosure and agreements. Ask about agency relationship types and the brokerage's responsibilities. Fair dealing rules apply to everyone.
Do not sign anything you do not understand, and take time to read.
Does it change your price?
Buyer-agent compensation may be part of your negotiation. In some deals buyers ask the seller to contribute; in others they pay directly. Your total cost should be clear before you offer.
Ask for a written estimate of all costs.
Common mistakes
Assuming commission is fixed, signing without reading, choosing on percentage alone and not asking what happens if the sale does not close.
Another mistake is not clarifying the term and cancellation rules in the agreement.
Questions to ask before you sign
What exactly does the fee cover? Is there a minimum term and how do I cancel? What happens if I find a buyer myself? Who pays for photos, staging and advertising? Is any fee due if the sale does not close? Written answers prevent misunderstandings later.
Checklist
Read the agreement fully. Compare two or three agents on services and references. Verify licenses. Clarify buyer-agent compensation. Keep a signed copy.
Next step
We are happy to explain our agreement and fees before you decide, in English or Russian. Lidiya Tretyak is a licensed Florida real estate agent with Douglas Elliman and speaks English, Russian and Ukrainian; the first consultation is free.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws and programs change — confirm details with a Florida attorney and a US tax professional.
Official sources
