If I contact the seller directly and strike a deal, will the real estate agent still get their commission?
In many cases, yes, the real estate agent may still be entitled to a commission, even if you contact the seller directly and negotiate the final deal yourself.
The key factor is usually the agreement that already exists between the seller and their agent. Most sellers sign a listing agreement that outlines when and how the agent earns a commission. If the property was introduced to you through the agent, or if the home is under an active listing contract, the commission may still be owed when the sale closes.
That said, every situation is different. For example:
- If the seller has an exclusive listing agreement, the agent is often entitled to compensation regardless of who finds the buyer.
- If the listing agreement has expired, the commission rules may be different.
- Some contracts contain protection clauses that cover buyers who were introduced to the property during the listing period.
A common misconception is that cutting the agent out of the conversation automatically eliminates the commission. In reality, commission obligations are typically governed by contracts, not simply by who conducts the final negotiation.
If you’re considering approaching a seller directly, it’s a good idea to understand the listing terms and any agreements already in place before assuming money will be saved. A quick review of the contracts can help avoid surprises later in the transaction.
In short: directly striking a deal with the seller does not necessarily mean the real estate agent loses their commission. It depends on the contractual agreement and how the buyer and seller were introduced to each other.