Who typically pays the commission for real estate agents?

In the typical real estate transaction, the seller is generally responsible for paying the commission for real estate agents. This payment is usually handled at the closing of the sale, where the commission amount is deducted from the proceeds of the sale. This practice aligns with standard real estate agreements and market customs, making it a common expectation among buyers and sellers.

Buyers often benefit from this arrangement since they are not directly responsible for agent commissions, allowing them to focus on other aspects of financing their home. While certain situations may arise where other payment methods could be considered, the seller paying the commission at closing is the predominant and recognized practice in the real estate market.