Let’s face it—nobody loves paying for a Realtor. I get it. Real estate commissions can feel like a hefty price tag. Think of us as the gatekeepers at Disneyland: we’re there, you have to go through us, but all you really want is to get to the other side and start the ride.

But here’s the thing—before you decide whether to work with a REALTOR, it’s important to understand why those fees exist and what you’re actually paying for. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot more than sticking a sign in the yard and hoping for the best.

What Do Real Estate Fees Cover?

Sure, part of the commission goes to licensing, insurance, and administrative costs. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. When you hire a Realtor, you’re paying for:

• Professional marketing to showcase your home to the right buyers.
• Continuous education to stay ahead in a competitive market.
• Expert negotiation skills to maximize your return on investment.
• Round-the-clock service to handle every aspect of your sale.

Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s behind that price tag:

Marketing Your Home: Why It’s Not Just a Sign in the Yard

You might think selling a home is as easy as throwing up a “For Sale” sign, but the stats tell a different story. Did you know that in 2020—a record-breaking year for real estate—over a third of listed homes didn’t sell?

Selling a home takes strategic marketing, and that’s where a good portion of your Realtor’s commission goes. At the Germyn Group, we invest heavily in:

• Staging to make your home look irresistible.
• Professional photography to capture attention online.
• High-quality marketing materials to attract the right buyers.

Here’s the kicker: if your home doesn’t sell, we don’t get paid. That’s why we’re all-in on giving your home the best chance to succeed.

Continuous Education: Staying Sharp for You

The real estate market is always changing. To serve you better, we’re constantly learning and adapting. At the Germyn Group, we invest time and money into training programs that help us:

• Deliver more value in today’s market.
• Treat every client with fairness and respect.
• Use your commission wisely to maximize your home’s potential.

Not all Realtors prioritize education, but for us, it’s non-negotiable.

Your Realtor Is an Investment: Let’s Talk ROI

Think of your Realtor’s commission as an investment—not just a cost. A skilled Realtor doesn’t just sell your home; they secure the best possible price.

For example, a top-performing Realtor might charge a slightly higher commission, but their expertise in marketing and negotiation could net you tens of thousands more on your sale. At the Germyn Group, we’ve sold homes for an average of 1.35% more than the industry standard over the past three years. For a $1 million home, that’s an extra $13,500 in your pocket.

Service: It’s Not Just a Job, It’s a Lifestyle

Realtors don’t clock out at 5 p.m.—at least not the good ones. Selling a home means being available:

• To answer your questions at a moment’s notice.
• To prepare paperwork and coordinate showings.
• To ensure every detail of your sale goes smoothly.

This isn’t an easy job—87% of Realtors quit within five years. At the Germyn Group, we thrive on delivering exceptional, round-the-clock service.

So Why Choose the Germyn Group?

Okay.

Shameless plug. But you are reading a blog post on our website, aren’t you? You are.

Well…

Not all Realtors are created equal. If you’re investing in a real estate commission, you deserve to work with a team that delivers real value.

At the Germyn Group, we’re committed to:

• Top-notch marketing to make your home stand out.
• Ongoing training to stay ahead of the game.
• Unmatched service every step of the way.

Over the past three years, we’ve helped our clients walk away with 1.35% more than the industry average. Selling your home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll make—don’t leave it to chance.

My name is Darin, the team leader with the Germyn Group, with Macdonald Realty, a REALTOR in Surrey, British Columbia. We made a YouTube video about what REALTORs aren’t telling you about commissions and how they are paid. Watch the full video here!

If this is your first time reading our blogs, we are here to educate you on everything there is to know about living in Surrey or White Rock, British Columbia. If you’re looking to make a move in the next 9 days, 90 days or 9 months, shoot us a text, give us a call, or book an in-person zoom meeting with us so we can learn a little bit more about your situation and let you know what we can do to help you. This way, we can make sure your move to Surrey or White Rock is a smooth one

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 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.