How do buyer agents know how much commission we are offering?​

How do buyer agents know how much commission we are offering?​

Following the NAR Settlement effective August 17, 2024, buyer agents can no longer see commission offers directly through the MLS. Instead, the commission details are communicated directly between the parties involved. Here’s how buyer agents will know how much commission you are offering:

How Buyer Agents Learn About Commission Offers:

  1. Direct Communication:

    • Phone, Text, Email, or In-Person: Sellers or their listing agents must communicate the commission offer directly to buyer agents through private channels such as phone calls, text messages, emails, or in-person meetings. This is the primary way that buyer agents will learn about the commission you are offering.
  2. Negotiation as Part of the Offer:

    • During Offer Submission: When a buyer agent submits an offer on behalf of their client, the commission they are seeking will typically be included in the offer contract. At this stage, the seller has the opportunity to negotiate the commission as part of the overall terms of the deal.
  3. Proactive Engagement:

    • Outreach by Buyer Agents: In some cases, buyer agents might proactively reach out to the seller or the seller's agent to inquire about the commission before submitting an offer. This engagement ensures that both parties are clear on the compensation before negotiations proceed.

Summary:

Buyer agents will know about the commission you are offering only through direct communication outside of the MLS. The commission is often discussed and negotiated during the offer stage, which becomes an integral part of the overall negotiation process for the property sale.