Cost to hire a real estate agent or broker
Using a real estate agent to sell your home is usually the most expensive way to go. However, many or most times, it ends up being the easiest and most cost effective way as well.
Real estate agents usually charge a commission for their services.
You can hire a real estate agent to either help you sell your home, or purchase a property.
When selling a home, a real estate agent usually asks for between 5% and 7% of the final sales price of the property.
When hiring an agent to assist in buying a home, the agent usually charges between 2% and 3% of the final sales price. However, this cost is usually paid for by the home seller.
While a real estate agent can demand a certain commission, you are free to bargain on the price, or choose another agent.
If you are buying or selling a home without using a real estate agent, you can usually hire and agent by the job or hour to assist you. They can help appraise your home, negotiate the contract, and advise you in many other ways. A good agent will probably charge between $40 and $100 an hour for their services.