Understanding Real Estate Broker Commissions: All You Need to Know Understanding Real Estate Agent Commissions: What You Need to Know 1. What are Real Estate Agent Commissions? Real estate agent commissions refer to fees paid to agents who help clients buy or sell property. – Typically the commission is a percent of the final selling price of the home and is paid to the seller. The rate of commission can vary based on the market as well as the agreement between the agent/seller. In most cases, agents are paid on a commission only basis. The commission is split between buyer’s