The average real estate commission in Washington State can hit up to 6% in 2025, of which you pay 3% to the listing agent. That’s $19,884 for a $662,800 home, just to get it on the MLS. Skip it! With Houzeo, Washington State’s best real estate platform, you can get MLS exposure for just $249.
But wait – you can save even more! Post NAR Settlement, the buyer’s agent fee is negotiable. This means you could pay even $0 to the buyer’s agent, saving around $39,768. That goes a long way in the Evergreen 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 $0, negotiate, or offer it as a concession – the choice is yours.💪
- Negotiate Each Dollar: Never assume that the real estate commission in Washington State 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 quick home sale.💡
- Save With a Washington State 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 The Average Real Estate Commission in Washington State?
The average real estate commission rates can range between 5.5% to 6% and are negotiable. It is a percentage of your home’s sale price that you pay as a Realtor’s fee.
The real estate commission in Washington State is split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. You pay around 2.5% to 3% to both agents. On a $662,800 median home, that’s $39,768 – enough to invest in a heat pump and extra insulation!
The average Realtor commission can go up to 6% of the sale price in Washington State. 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 Washington State Realtor Fees?
The Washington State 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 Washington State?
Washington State Realtor fees aren’t one-size-fits-all! Location matters, and you can expect regional variations. Less competitive markets like Spokane, Yakima, or Walla Walla can see lower rates.
However, cities with tourism and luxury homes like Seattle, Bellevue, Bainbridge Island, and other upscale Puget Sound areas can see higher rates. This is due to their prime locations, limited waterfront land, strong demand, and the prestige tied to Washington State’s urban and coastal lifestyles.
Who Pays Real Estate Commission in Washington State?
As per the new Washington State real estate commission rules, it depends on how you negotiate. Here’s how the Washington State real estate commission is 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?
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 that you 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
The buyer agents now sign written agreements with their clients for their services and fees. This means you can’t be scammed with hidden costs. All the parties know the costs upfront, leading to a smoother home sale. 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 Washington State Real Estate Commissions?
The 3% listing agent commission can amount to a whopping $19,884 in Washington State. 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 the high real estate commission in Washington State, but are unsure how to list on the MLS in Washington State, Houzeo is your answer. Your home gets listed within 24 hours, at a fraction of the cost of a Realtor. It’s I-5 through Seattle at midnight, smooth, fast, and straight to your destination!
Thousands, depending on your home value! Calculate your home savings in Washington State now.
2. Sell ‘FSBO’
You can go for the best FSBO websites in Washington State and sell your home without a Realtor. You’ve got to market your home, manage showings, and handle negotiations, all by yourself. It’s like hiking Mount Rainier without a trail 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 Washington State: The Checklist ✅
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. Washington State’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 like skipping the line at Pike Place Market on a Saturday, 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 avoid mistakes and getting stuck in the same muddy trails that slow down other sellers.
- 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 Washington State 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 homes for sale in Washington State 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 for their agent.
How to Avoid High Realtor Fees?
Houzeo is the answer for you! Houzeo is Washington’s best home buying and selling platform. For sellers, Houzeo offers Flat Fee MLS Washington State 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 Washington 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 Washington buyers.
- #4: Choose Your Flat Fee MLS Plan: Pick the plan that aligns with your needs while selling a house in Washington State. 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 $32,841!
When you sell your house with a listing agent, you may have to spend a whopping $39,768, on a median home of $662,800 in Washington. However, with Houzeo, you get to save a huge $32,841! That’s your ticket to a weekend in the San Juan Islands!
| Service Provider | Fee in Washington | Savings |
| Real Estate Agent | 3% Listing Fee + 3% Buyer’s Agent Commission: $39,768 | $0 |
| Houzeo | Fixed Fee: $299 + $6,628 = $6,927 | $32,841 |
Don’t Pay High Commissions Any Longer!
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, Washington’s highest-rated platform for a truly stellar sale!
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out what customers are saying about Houzeo – Washington’s best home buying and selling website.
