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According to a recent report by LendingTree, about 31% of individuals involved in home buying and selling have engaged in negotiations with their agents, with a significant majority, comprising 64%, successfully reducing their fees. Jacob Channel, a senior economist at LendingTree, pointed out that many buyers and sellers are unaware of this possibility as real estate agent costs tend to be overlooked in their financial considerations.
Real estate agent commissions, which typically range from 5% to 6%, can amount to substantial sums, often overlooked amidst larger expenses such as down payments and mortgages. Despite this, nearly half of homebuyers and sellers are unaware of the exact commissions their agents receive. In 2023, the average commission stood at 5.37%. While some sellers opt to sell their homes independently to avoid these fees, this approach may entail more effort and complexity than anticipated due to the intricate processes involved.
Real estate agents offer invaluable expertise in navigating local market trends, optimizing property sales, and handling transaction paperwork. While negotiating agent fees, it’s essential for buyers and sellers to inquire about the rationale behind the charges and explore potential discounts or agreements. Factors such as property desirability, value, and market conditions can influence negotiation leverage. Additionally, exploring alternative agents with varied fee structures, such as low-commission agents or those operating on a flat-fee basis, can provide additional options.
Recent legal developments, including an antitrust lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and major brokerages, may impact the traditional fee structure in real estate transactions. If the lawsuit’s verdict holds, sellers may no longer be obligated to cover the buyer’s agent fees, potentially altering market dynamics and prompting further fee negotiations.
Overall, increased transparency regarding real estate transaction costs underscores the importance of careful financial consideration for both buyers and sellers in the housing market.
SOURCE: CNBC