What Is The Real Estate Agent Commission And How Does It Work In Chicago?

May 19, 2022

The real estate market has always been one of the most important both in the context of the economy and in understanding human needs. Selling or buying property can be a confusing and challenging task. For this reason, most potential homeowners seek the services of realtors and real estate professionals.

If you are planning to sell or buy a property in Illinois, the services of realtors in Chicago will come in handy. At the same time, the issue of price remains relevant.

What is Real Estate Commission?

The real Estate Commission is the payment the realtor receives for the services provided by him. These payments are made by brokers for the sale or purchase of real estate. This is usually a percentage of the final price, which ranges from 4 to 6%. Traditionally, the fee is divided between the listing agent and buying agent in uniform proportions. Although a fixed fee is possible as well.

What is the price of real estate services in Chicago?

It is important to understand that selling a home is a complex and time-consuming process that requires effort on both sides. Therefore, it is common for an Illinois realtor to receive 6% of a home sale’s final price.

Some examples:


Home sale’s final price is $350,000, 6% is $21,000. Therefore, $10,500 will go to your agent and $10,500 will go to the buyer’s agent.

Home sale’s final price is $550,000, 6% is $33,000. Therefore, $16,500 will go to your agent and $16,500 will go to the buyer’s agent.

What services are involved in Real Estate Agent`s Commission?

The realtor performs a lot of important tasks that can not be immediately grasped by the naked eye. First of all, a realtor is the main source of information for the clients. It is he who reports on current proposals, and the state of the market. pricing, etc. In addition, they provide access to those buildings that are not yet officially part of the real estate market, but which are ideal for your requirements and needs.

Mostly a realtor is your main driver of negotiations. He will always give sound advice, explain the intricacies of the deal, and will be the main link of communication between buyer and seller.

Last but not least, a realtor creates advertising for your offer. It is the realtor who creates the perfect picture that can not leave a potential buyer indifferent. The realtor is responsible for placing your offer on various sites from print media to social networks.

Finally, the realtor meets potential clients, holds live meetings with them, and brings the whole sales process to the final stage.

 Is it possible to reduce the price of the Real Estate Commission?

Most often, the amount of the commission is discussed directly with the realtor. But directly lowering the interest rate will narrow the range of services provided by the realtor.

This might affect services such as:

  • the number and diversity of sites where advertising is placed
  • photo and video quality
  • professional staging and shooting

What is the average time a home is sold in Chicago?

The average house price in Chicago is about $ 229,000. On the whole, homes in Chicago spend about 125 days in the “available” category in the real estate market. Needless to say, these figures depend on many factors such as the location of the house, the time of year, the state of the market, general economic trends, and of course, the Illinois realtor who sells it.

It is incredibly important to work with a local realtor who is not just focused on the market as a whole, but on the unique nuances of the local market, its trends, ups and downs, and the best offers and benefits.

Do I have to pay the commission out of my own pocket?

A typical question is: «Who pays Real Estate Commission?». This amount is included in the final sale price, as shown in the example above. Thus, neither the seller nor the buyer pays this commission personally or directly.

What happens to the commission if the deal fails?

Another common question that worries potential sellers is: “Do I have to pay the realtor if the deal fails?” The answer is likely to satisfy the majority. No, you pay Real Estate Commission only after the successful sale of housing.

But one important nuance should be remembered. If you have already started working with a realtor and used a number of his services, and then changed your mind to sell the house, the services of a realtor still have to be paid. This does not mean that you will pay Real Estate Commission. This will most likely be a fixed amount for the classic set of services you have used.

How to choose the ideal realtor?

During the interview, clarify what services are provided by a realtor, what is his commission rate, where the ad is placed and how it is created. Don’t be afraid to ask additional questions and clarify vague nuances. Do not be afraid to negotiate with realtors. They will not only clarify the laws of the market, but in addition, realtors will help you deal with pricing and commissioning.

Before signing a contract with a realtor, study all the terms and conditions. Before taking such a decisive and important step in your life, make sure you understand all the ins and outs.

The real estate market is an incredibly complex and multilevel system. Rather it’s realtors in Chicago or other real estate professionals it is so important to have a true professional on your side.


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
We're your source for local coverage, we count on your support. SUPPORT US!
Your support is crucial in maintaining a healthy democracy and quality journalism. With your contribution, we can continue to provide engaging news and free access to all.
accepted credit cards

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles