The average real estate commission in Illinois can hit up to 6% in 2025, of which you pay 3% to the listing agent. That’s $9,387 for a $312,900 home – just to get it on the MLS. Skip it! With Houzeo, Illinois’ best real estate platform, you can get MLS exposure for just $249.
But there’s more! Post NAR Settlement, the buyer’s agent commissions are negotiable. This means you could pay even $0 to the buyer’s agent, saving around $18,774. That goes a long way in the Prairie State, where every dollar counts!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Post-NAR Power Shift: The buyer’s agent commission is now in the hands of the seller. You can pay zero, negotiate, or offer it as a concession – the choice is yours.💪
- Negotiate Each Dollar: Never assume that the real estate commission in Illinois is fixed! Your negotiating power impacts your profit.💲
- Master Your Sale: Research the market, find local median home prices, and set the perfect asking price for a stellar Illinois home sale.💡
- Save With Illinois Flat Fee MLS Service: Your home gets listed on the MLS for a flat fee- that’s a fraction of the cost you’d pay to the Realtor.⚖️
What Is Real Estate Commission in Illinois?
It is a percentage of your home’s sale price that you pay as a Realtor’s fee. The average real estate commission rates can range between 5.5% to 6% and are negotiable.
The real estate commission in Illinois is split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. You pay around 2.5% to 3% to both agents. On a $312,900 median home, that’s $18,774 – enough to invest in new windows and attic insulation for Midwest winters.
The average Realtor commission can go up to 6% of the sale price in Illinois. While sellers traditionally paid both agents, they’re no longer required to cover the buyer’s agent commission post the NAR Settlement.
What Impacts Your Illinois Realtor Fees?
The Illinois real estate commission isn’t set in stone! Here are some of the factors that influence the Realtor’s fee:
- Property Type: Single-family homes typically align with the state average rates. Luxury properties might see lower percentages (4%-5%) due to their high sale price. Conversely, vacant land or commercial properties command more commission due to longer sales cycles.
- Market Conditions: In a seller’s market (low inventory), agents might be more flexible as homes sell faster. However, in a buyer’s market (high inventory), agents seek higher rates due to increased marketing needs.
- Agent Experience and Services: Experienced agents often ask full fees for their expertise and services they offer, such as professional photography, marketing, negotiation, etc. Less experienced agents or those offering limited services might be more negotiable.
What Are the Regional Real Estate Commissions in Illinois?
Illinois Realtor fees aren’t one-size-fits-all! Location matters, and you can expect regional variations. Less competitive markets like Danville, Galesburg, or Alton can see lower rates.
However, cities with tourists and luxury condos like Winnetka, Glencoe, Hinsdale, and other affluent areas can see higher rates. This is due to their prime location, limited availability of land, high demand, and luxury lifestyles.
Who Pays the Realtor Fees in Illinois?
As per the new real estate commission structure, it depends on how you negotiate. Here’s how the Illinois real estate agent fees are compensated now:
1. Listing Agent Fees: Who Pays?
If you’re a home seller, you pay the listing agent commission. It’s generally 3% of your home’s selling price and is included in the closing costs for sellers. Your listing agent and broker further divide this commission between them.
Traditionally, the seller would pay for both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. But after the NAR Settlement, the seller pays for the listing agent to list on the MLS and is no longer obligated to pay for the buyer’s agent.
2. Buyer Agent Commission: Who Covers the Cost?
The buyer’s agent fee is now primarily the buyer’s responsibility after the NAR Settlement. However, here are 3 ways it can be compensated:
- Seller Covers the Buyer’s Agent Commission: You can still choose to pay the buyer’s agent. However, the fees are no longer advertised on the MLS. This requires your agent or you to contact the buyer’s agent outside the MLS to discuss the commission.
- Buyers Pay Their Agents: The buyer can choose to (or you can ask them to) compensate their agent. Buyers’ agents typically require their clients to sign an agreement. It clearly states the commission amount that the buyer has to pay.
- Sellers and Buyers Negotiate a Deal: In a buyer’s market, buyers can bid higher and request you to offer a concession. The concession goes to the buyer who can use it to cover costs like the agent fees.
Does the NAR Settlement Benefit Home Sellers?
The NAR Settlement favors sellers in 3 ways:
1. You Get More Control Over Costs
You now have the power to decide if and how much you contribute to the buyer’s agent. This means you can offer nothing or negotiate a specific amount as a seller concession.
2. You Enjoy Clearer Deal Terms
Buyer agents now sign written agreements with their clients outlining their services and fees. This means you can’t be scammed with hidden costs. All parties know the costs upfront, leading to a smoother home sale process. Remember: if it’s not in writing, it’s not happening!
3. You Attract More Serious Buyers
With direct client agreements, buyer agents would bring only committed buyers for your property. This filters out casual shoppers, ensuring more qualified offers for you!
How to Save on Real Estate Commissions in Illinois?
The 3% listing agent commission can amount to a whopping $12,303 in Illinois. When you minimize these costs, you maximize net profit! Here are some ways to save big on your home sale:
1. List for a Flat Fee
If you want max exposure without high commissions but are unsure how to list on the MLS in Illinois, Houzeo is your answer. Your home gets listed within 24 hours, at a fraction of a Realtor’s cost. It’s just like the I-294 with no toll backups — smooth, fast, and straight to the finish.
Thousands, depending on your home value! Calculate your home savings in Illinois now.
2. Sell ‘FSBO’
FSBO means selling your home without a Realtor in Illinois. You’ve got to market your home, manage showings, and handle negotiations, all by yourself. It is like steering your boat through the Everglades with only a map!
But here’s the easiest way to sell FSBO, you get licensed broker assistance to help you sell like a pro while saving thousands!
FSBO Home Sale in Illinois: The Blueprint 📜
If you want to sell without a Realtor, you don’t have to feel overwhelmed! This free FSBO checklist is a step-by-step guide for a smooth, commission-free sale.
Keep the Commission, Take the Checklist
Smart sellers use checklists. Savvy sellers use ours.
Download Your FSBO Checklist3. Choose a Discount Real Estate Broker
It’s possible to get access to the MLS with negotiation support but without the 6% commission. Illinois’s discount real estate brokers are a good option to consider. They offer traditional Realtor services but at discount rates (typically 1% to 2%). It’s the best of both worlds: full-service support without the full-service fee!
👉 List Your Home Now and Save Thousands on Commissions
4. Sell to an iBuyer or Cash Buyer
If you want to sell your home fast for cash, a cash buyer marketplace might be what you need. You get quick, competitive offers, as multiple bids can get you 100% of your property value. Think of it as hitting the Kennedy with no traffic – everybody wants it!
What Should You Do Before Paying a Realtor Commission?
To sell your home like a pro, you must master commission negotiation and know what you’re paying for! Use these tips to outsmart common mistakes and avoid slipping into the same slush pile as last winter’s Chicago rookie!
- Negotiate Your Fee: Don’t assume the 5% to 6% commission is final. You can negotiate for a lower commission rate.
- Look Beyond the Commission Rate: Paying a hefty fee doesn’t always mean that you’ll get the best service. You might need to market your property well to make your home sell faster in the current Illinois housing market.
- Evaluate the Services Included: Some agents might offer fewer services for the same standard commission. Finalize your commission rate after you clarify what their package includes (e.g., home staging, photography, marketing).
- Widen Your Buyer Pool: Depending on the number of Illinois property listings and market trends, you might have to offer to cover a part of the buyer’s agent fee. This can help you attract a lot of buyers who would need financial assistance from their agent.
How to Avoid High Realtor Fees?
Houzeo is the answer for you! Houzeo is the best real estate buying and selling platform in Illinois. For sellers, Houzeo offers Flat Fee MLS Illinois packages that save you thousands in commissions. Here’s how you can slash commissions and maximize your profit:
- #1: Visit Houzeo.com: This is your first step towards taking control of your sale and saving thousands in commissions.
- #2: Create Your Account and Start Listing: Set up your profile in minutes, then click “Sell Your Property” on your dashboard to begin your Illinois house sale journey.
- #3: Enter Property Details: Fill in all crucial details – beds, baths, square footage, etc. Also, strategically price your home for sale to attract Illinois buyers.
- #4: Choose Your Flat Fee MLS Plan: Pick the plan that aligns with your needs while selling a house in Illinois. Each option comes with tailored features, comprehensive services, and commission savings.
- #5: Upload Pictures and Sign Agreement: Add your best shots and digitally sign your listing agreement to get your home live on the MLS fast!
How Much Do You Save With Houzeo?
Almost $18,000!
When you sell your house with a listing agent, you may have to spend a whopping $18,774, on a median home of $312,900 in Illinois. However, with Houzeo, you get to save a huge $15,346! That’s your ticket to box seats at a Cubs game or a furnace that keeps up in January.
| Service Provider | Fee in Illinois | Savings |
| Real Estate Agent | 3% Listing Fee + 3% Buyer’s Agent Commission: $18,774 | $0 |
| Houzeo | Fixed Fee: $299 + $3,129 = $3,428 | $15,346 |
Why Pay More When You Don’t Have To?
Houzeo cuts the 3% listing agent fee, helping you keep thousands in your pocket. The Houzeo Mobile App is super easy to use and makes selling your house a cakewalk. Sell smarter with Houzeo, Illinois’s highest-rated platform for a truly stellar sale!
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out what customers are saying about Houzeo – Illinois’ best home selling website.
