Realtor commission is one of the most misunderstood costs in a home sale. It is not set by law, and the rules for who pays the buyer’s agent changed in 2024. Here is what is typical, who pays what now, and a calculator so you can see the dollars on a Sun City Grand sale.
What commission looks like in Arizona
Sources: published Arizona estimates from brokerage and market sites, which vary, and the Central Arizona Association of Realtors. Treat the percentages as estimates, not as rates. Checked October 18, 2026.
These are averages, not prices. Your rate is whatever you and your agent agree to in writing, and it can be higher or lower.
Who pays whom after the 2024 rule change
Since August 2024, listing brokers no longer publish a blanket offer of compensation to buyer agents in the MLS. Sellers are not required to pay the buyer’s agent, though many still choose to. The result is that the buyer’s agent fee is now something you agree on openly.
| Who pays | How it works |
|---|---|
| Seller pays both agents | The seller agrees to pay the listing agent and also offers to cover the buyer’s agent. |
| Seller covers part | The seller offers a set amount toward the buyer agent fee and the buyer pays the rest. |
| Buyer pays directly | The buyer pays their own agent at closing, per the written agreement. |
| Negotiated in the contract | The buyer asks the seller to pay the agent fee as part of the offer. |
See what commission costs in dollars
Commission is negotiable, so try different rates. The starting numbers are only an example.
An example, not a quote. Deah explains her fee in writing before you sign anything.
Want Deah’s fee in writing first?
Deah explains what she charges and what you get for it before you sign anything. Call her or ask for a free consultation.
The buyer agreement
Under the MLS rule, buyers sign a written agreement with their agent that states the compensation and says it is negotiable, before the agent tours a home with them. The Arizona Department of Real Estate has said that touring a home does not require an agreement under state law, so the timing comes from the MLS rule. Either way, ask for the terms in writing and read them.
- The amount or rate has to be clear, not open ended.
- It should say what happens if the seller offers more or less than the agreed amount.
- It should state how long the agreement lasts and how it ends.
What the fee pays for
A good agent does far more than open doors. Deah handles pricing, marketing, negotiation, the HOA paperwork in a community like Sun City Grand, inspection and repair talks, and the closing timeline. Read what to expect on the Buying Agent page.
Selling instead? The Sellers Guide walks through it.
Ways to lower what you pay
- Ask for the fee in writing and compare it with two agents.
- Sellers can ask for a lower listing rate in return for a quick sale plan.
- Buyers can ask the seller to pay part or all of the agent fee in the offer.
- Remember that the lowest fee is not the best deal if it costs you on price or repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
Is Realtor commission fixed in Arizona?
No. Commission is not set by law and is negotiable on every sale.
Who pays the buyer’s agent now?
It depends on the agreement. The seller, the buyer or both can pay. Sellers are no longer required to offer it, though many still do.
Do I have to sign an agreement before I tour homes?
MLS rules ask buyers to sign one before touring with an agent. The Arizona Department of Real Estate says it is not a state requirement. Deah explains the terms either way.
What is the average commission in Arizona?
Published estimates average around 5.7 percent in total, about 2.5 to 3 percent per side. These are estimates, not rates.
How do I ask Deah about her fee?
Call (425) 407-2800 and ask for a free consultation. She will give you her fee in writing before you commit.