The Hidden Truth About Realtor Commissions: Why It's Not Just About the Fee

Most people only see the tip of what REALTORS® do: the signs in the yard, the open houses, the handing over of keys. But the real work—the hard, unglamorous, behind-the-scenes grind—happens underwater, like an iceberg. That's why real estate has historically been a commission-based profession, not a flat fee-for-service model. In today's market, especially post-2024 NAR changes, sellers are negotiating harder than ever, and I get it—you want the best agent at the best rate. But let's dive into why commissions exist and the value they represent. As a local Vancouver agent, I've crafted this to open the conversation, not close it.

1. You're Not Paying Us to Open Doors—You're Paying for Risk
   Agents don't get a salary, hourly wage, benefits, or even a pat on the back for effort alone. We only get paid if the deal closes. Every mile driven to showings, every repair coordinated, every late-night negotiation, and every upfront marketing cost? We absorb it all with zero guarantee. Commission compensates us for shouldering 100% of the financial and professional risk, so you can focus on your next chapter without the headache.
2. Commission Aligns Our Success with Yours
   A fee-for-service setup means "pay me no matter what." Commission flips that: "If you don't win, neither do we." This keeps our incentives laser-focused on you—getting the highest price, the best terms, the smoothest process, and the least stress. In Vancouver's competitive market, where homes are selling faster with more inventory, that alignment can mean thousands more in your pocket.
3. Real Estate Isn't One Service—It's 50+ Wrapped into One
   Folks often think "fee for service" means billing by the task, like a menu. But selling a home isn't a checklist; it's full representation, strategy, liability management, negotiation, and advocacy. A typical transaction here in Clark County involves:
   • Pricing strategy tailored to local trends
   • Professional marketing (photos, virtual tours, online listings)
   • Staging guidance to highlight your home's best features
   • Handling legal disclosures and compliance
   • Coordinating vendors like inspectors and photographers
   • Managing showings and open houses
   • Drafting and reviewing contracts
   • Negotiating repairs after inspections
   • Overseeing appraisals and title/escrow issues
   • Tracking deadlines, mitigating risks, and ensuring everything's above board
   • Providing emotional support through one of life's biggest moves
     You're not paying for isolated tasks—you're investing in someone who orchestrates the entire symphony.
4. Post-NAR Ruling, You Have More Options—But the Value Remains
   The 2024 NAR settlement brought more transparency to commissions, empowering consumers like never before. But it didn't diminish what top agents deliver: reduced stress, protected equity, and strategies that often recoup the commission through smarter deals. Sellers don't hire a REALTOR® because they enjoy paying fees—they do it to keep more money, save time, and gain peace of mind. In my experience helping Vancouver families, that's the real ROI.
5. Commission Reflects the Weight of Responsibility
   When things go sideways (and they often do—think inspection surprises or appraisal hiccups), your agent is the one liable, resolving conflicts, and safeguarding your interests. No hourly rate could cover that accountability.

On top of this, agent commissions are always negotiable. As your local Vancouver, WA expert at Anjali Real Estate (

), I'm here to listen to your "why"—your goals, concerns, and what you're hoping to achieve with your sale—and share my "why" behind the value I bring. This post is meant to spark an open conversation about commissions, so let's discuss your property's unique needs and craft a plan that maximizes your net proceeds while delivering top-tier service. It's also worth noting that most sellers don't realize realtors don't pocket every dollar from that commission check. There are multiple parties involved—such as brokerages, transaction fees, marketing costs, and other splits—that take a share before we even see it. Then come taxes, deductions, and the countless hours invested (often 40+ per transaction). In the end, after all that, many agents like me walk away with less than 30% in our pockets. My focus is on earning your trust through results, not just a rate—let's talk about what works best for you!