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Buyer's Agent Commissions Are a Tool, Not a Cost

Home Selling Tips
August 07, 2026•2 min read

A smart seller can turn the new commission rules into a tool for a higher sale price, once they know how the changes actually work.

Back in August 17, 2024, rules on commission changed, and it was all over the news. If you’ve heard of it and simply missed some details, it’s understandable. A lot of buyers and sellers I’ve worked with thought everything changed. It was not the truth.

What people assumed. On the buyers’ side, they thought they’d need an out-of-pocket payment to their agent. On the sellers’ side, they thought they’d save money and minimize the cost by not covering the buyer’s agent compensation.

What actually changed. Commissions are no longer advertised on the listing the way they once were. The buyer's agent compensation isn't disclosed there anymore. And before a buyer tours a single property, they now sign an agreement with their agent. Those changes are real, and this part took effect in 2024.

What most people miss. Sellers are still covering the buyer's agent compensation, by choice. The reason is simple. A seller wants the sale, and holding that compensation back works against them. Fewer buyers show interest, the pool shrinks, and competition drops with it.

The smart way to use it. Handled well, the buyer's agent compensation isn't a cost to cut. It's a carrot, an incentive that can lift the price. When an offer comes in low, you counter on the price and the compensation at the same time, until the numbers line up. The sale closes higher, and covering the compensation out of that higher number makes financial sense.

If you're buying or selling and want to know how this works in today's market, reach out. I'll take you through it step by step.

As a buyer, I'll put you in the strongest position I can. As a seller, you'll use the buyer's agent's commission to raise the price until the deal makes sense and the sale goes through.

Let's connect, and I'll help you land on the winning side of the transaction. Call or text me at 312-818-2978, email me at [email protected], or visit sohailrealestate.com.

Realtor, Chicago & North Shore — a top real estate expert serving Chicago, the North Shore suburbs, and the West suburbs of Chicagoland.


Sohail Salahuddin

Sohail Salahuddin

When navigating real estate, you need a trusted advisor who understands every aspect of the industry. From smart investing to strategic selling and seamless financing. That’s exactly what Sohail delivers. Starting his real estate journey at just 20 years old, Sohail purchased his first home while earning a degree in Network Engineering. He quickly expanded into multi-unit properties, gaining firsthand experience in what makes a solid investment. His deep understanding of real estate financing led him to build and operate a successful mortgage company, equipping him with the insights to help clients secure the best possible terms. Beyond financing, Sohail’s expertise extends to property development, from building new homes to flipping properties and managing large condo conversions. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, he brings a well-rounded perspective to every transaction—helping you make informed decisions, maximize returns, and avoid costly pitfalls. As the founder of his own brokerage, Sohail is committed to simplifying the real estate process for his clients. He takes the time to understand your unique goals and crafts a personalized strategy to help you achieve them. With a strong focus on education, transparency, and negotiation, he ensures that every client moves forward with confidence—whether buying their first home, selling for top dollar, or scaling an investment portfolio. With Sohail, you don’t just get an agent—you get a dedicated advocate who puts your success first.

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