Information only · sourced below
Where the squeeze actually landed
Two years on from the settlement, the averages have moved less than the headlines suggested — but they have not moved evenly, and the side that moved is the side that now has to justify itself out loud.
- Total commissions are running roughly 5.0–5.5%, against 5.4–6.0% before the settlement.
- The listing side averages near 2.88%; the buyer side near 2.82%. Almost all of the compression is on the buyer side.
- 34% of agents name buyer-side compensation negotiation as their single biggest strain; 30% point to negotiating with sellers.
- A written buyer agreement is now required before you tour a home, with compensation spelled out in specific terms.
- Roughly two thirds of agents surveyed in early 2026 reported no significant change in their own commission levels — the pressure is on those who cannot explain their fee.
Sources: 2026 industry commission reporting · survey of 213 real estate professionals, early 2026. Figures verified August 2026.
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