If you’ve ever wondered how REALTORS® earn their income in British Columbia, you’re not alone. The process can seem a bit mysterious, but understanding how it works can help you make more informed decisions when buying or selling a home.

Let’s break it down into simple terms so you know exactly who pays for what and how much REALTORS® actually make.

What Do Real Estate Agents Do?

Before diving into how they get paid, let’s look at what REALTORS® ACTUALLY do!

Real estate agents don’t just show homes—they wear many hats. They market properties, negotiate deals, guide you through complex paperwork, and ensure you stay on track legally and financially.
Think of them as your personal advocate, working behind the scenes to make the transaction as smooth as possible. For all this work, their payment comes in the form of a commission.

Who Pays REALTOR® Fees in BC?

Here’s the golden question: Who pays for all this hard work?
In BC, the Seller typically pays the REALTOR® fees, which are deducted from the proceeds of the home sale. These fees are split between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent.

However, as a buyer, you indirectly contribute to these fees because they’re factored into the purchase price of the home.

Pro tip: If you’re selling, these fees are an investment in ensuring your home gets maximum exposure and a top-dollar offer.

How Much Are Real Estate Agent Fees?

In BC, REALTOR® fees often follow a tiered structure. A common example is:

• 7% on the first $100,000 of the sale price.
• 2.5% on the balance of the sale price.

For example, if your home sells for $800,000, the total commission would be calculated as:

• 7% of $100,000 = $7,000
• 2.5% of $700,000 = $17,500
• Total: $24,500

This amount is then split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents, with a portion also going to their respective brokerages.

Why REALTOR® Fees Are Worth It

Paying REALTOR® fees may seem like a big chunk of change, but you’re paying for expertise, negotiation skills, and market knowledge that can ultimately save—or make—you money.

They also:

1. Maximum Exposure Through Strategic Marketing

A REALTOR® doesn’t just throw your property on a website and hope for the best. They create a tailored marketing plan that includes:

• Professional photography and video tours.
• Listing your home on the MLS® and top real estate websites.
• Leveraging social media and email campaigns to reach thousands of potential buyers.

This ensures your property gets seen by the right people, increasing the chances of attracting serious buyers quickly.

2. Negotiation Skills That Pay Off

Experienced REALTORS® are skilled negotiators who know how to position your home as a must-have. They handle tough conversations with buyers and their agents to:

• Secure higher offers by highlighting your home’s unique value.
• Navigate multiple-offer scenarios, driving up the final sale price.
• Advocate for your best interests, ensuring the deal terms align with your goals.

Often, the money they negotiate on your behalf more than covers their commission.

3. Stress-Free Selling Experience

Selling a home involves a mountain of tasks, from scheduling showings to handling complex legal paperwork. A REALTOR® takes care of everything so you can focus on what matters most—your next chapter.
Here’s what they manage for you, but not limited to:

Coordinating Inspections, Appraisals, and Showings

From scheduling a professional home inspection to setting up appraisals, your REALTOR® ensures every step happens on time and with trusted professionals. They also manage showing requests, ensuring your home is presented at its best and buyers can view it conveniently.

This level of coordination means you won’t have to juggle multiple calls, emails, or logistics. Your REALTOR® becomes your point person, streamlining everything behind the scenes.

Ensuring Deadlines Are Met and Paperwork Is Completed Correctly

Real estate transactions come with strict deadlines and extensive paperwork. Missing a single deadline or overlooking a critical detail could jeopardize your sale—or cost you thousands.

Your REALTOR® ensures:

• Every contract is reviewed for accuracy.
• Deadlines: such as those for subject removal or deposit payments, are met without fail.
• Any potential issues are flagged and resolved early, protecting your interests.

You can rest easy knowing that a professional is safeguarding your transaction.

Providing Constant Updates, So You’re Never in the Dark

There’s nothing worse than feeling out of the loop during a major life event like selling your home. A great REALTOR® keeps you informed every step of the way. Expect regular updates on:

• Market feedback from potential buyers.
• Progress on key milestones like inspections and offers.
• Adjustments needed to improve your selling strategy.

This level of support saves you time, energy, and headaches, making the process as smooth as possible.

The Bottom Line

REALTOR® fees in BC may seem like a lot, but they represent the value and effort that agents bring to the table. Whether you’re buying or selling, their expertise can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a stressful experience.

Curious about how much your home is worth or what an agent can do for you? Contact us today to find out how we make the buying or selling process easy and effective.

What if I have any questions about moving to Surrey or White Rock, BC?

Selecting an excellent real estate professional is key to a successful home purchase. The Germyn Group, with our deep understanding of South Surrey/White Rock and its real estate dynamics, is committed to guiding you every step of the way.

We invite you to book a consultation with us. During our meeting, we’ll discuss your needs, preferences, and any questions you might have about the South Surrey/White Rock real estate market.

As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that the right home in Surrey/White Rock is more than just a property; it’s a foundation for your future. With the Germyn Group by your side, let’s make your dream of homeownership in South Surrey/White Rock a beautiful reality.