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new study by Redfin reveals that real estate commissions for buyer's agents have remained largely unchanged since industry rules changed in August. The average commission for homes sold in October was 2.34%, only slightly lower than the 2.35% level seen in August, when buyers gained more control over agent fees. In contrast to this stability, commissions for high-end homes (listed above $1 million) dropped from an average of 2.24% in August to 2.11% in October.

    The new rules, implemented after class-action lawsuits against the National Association of Realtors, require listing agents to obtain buyer agreement on agent fees before showing homes. While intended to lower rates, commissions have remained relatively stable across most price points. However, Redfin agents report that the need for upfront conversations about fees has increased transparency and encouraged more communication with buyers.

    Traditionally, sellers paid both their own agent's commission and the buyer's agent fee. This status quo continues, but in competitive markets, agents are negotiating commission amounts and payment terms more frequently. Some sellers now want to pay 2% to a buyer's agent, leading to more negotiations on commissions.