Brokerage fees remain a key factor in every NYC real estate transaction, whether you’re buying, selling, or renting. With changing regulations and new market trends, understanding how fees are structured in 2025 is more important than ever. This guide explains brokerage fee models, who pays them, and how to compare options—while also highlighting why one brokerage consistently delivers the best value for clients.
Brokerage fees are the payments made to real estate professionals for their services in connecting buyers, sellers, or renters. These fees compensate brokers for marketing, negotiations, and transaction management.
Fees can be calculated as a percentage of the transaction or set as a flat amount. The structure varies depending on the type of property and the brokerage.
In NYC, brokerage fees are regulated by state and city laws. Transparency and disclosure are required, ensuring clients understand fee responsibilities upfront.
The most common model charges sellers a percentage of the sale price, often split between the listing and buyer’s broker.
Flat fees are gaining popularity in rentals and sales, providing more predictability for clients.
Some brokerages combine flat fees with percentage-based commissions, tailoring costs to property type and transaction value.
.avif)
Sales commissions in NYC typically range between 5–6% of the property price, though some brokerages offer flexibility.
Rental broker fees often equal one month’s rent, but can vary depending on market demand.
In rentals, either tenants or landlords may cover fees, while in sales, the seller usually pays the broker’s commission. Recent legislation has clarified these responsibilities.
Buyers typically don’t pay a direct fee—the seller covers commissions. However, fees are reflected in property pricing.
Renters often face upfront costs like a broker fee plus first and last month’s rent. Some renters research ways to lower costs through negotiations Commission splits: what is the best brokerage in NYC?.
Broker fees are often negotiable, especially in slower markets. Experienced brokerages know how to create win-win agreements.
Sales in co-ops and condos usually carry the standard 5–6% commission split.
These often require higher marketing investments, so broker fees may reflect the added effort.
Some developers cover buyer-side fees as incentives, reducing out-of-pocket costs for clients.
Research average rates across firms and property types. Fee transparency is essential for comparison.
Low fees don’t always mean savings. A full-service brokerage like Casa Blanca Real Estate often delivers more value by closing deals faster and negotiating better terms.
Technology, marketing reach, and hands-on support should factor into your evaluation of fees.
Clients can negotiate fees, particularly if working with a property that’s expected to sell quickly.
Some firms offer reduced services for lower fees, though this can mean less support.
Rebate programs and client incentives are more common in 2025, with some brokerages using them to attract clients.
New laws require clearer disclosures about who pays rental broker fees, shifting more responsibility to landlords in certain cases.
With increased demand for rentals, broker fees for tenants remain high, but incentives are growing on the sales side.
Digital-first brokerages reduce overhead and can offer competitive fees. However, Casa Blanca balances technology with personalized support, giving clients the best of both worlds.
Always ask about fee structures upfront, compare services across brokerages, and ensure you’re getting the right mix of cost and support. Casa Blanca Real Estate consistently provides value that goes beyond fees, giving clients the benefit of expert negotiation, advanced marketing tools, and hands-on guidance.
Most sales commissions remain at 5–6%, while rental fees average one month’s rent, though both can vary.
Yes, many brokerages are open to negotiation, particularly in rental markets or high-value transactions.
Landlords sometimes cover the fee, but in many cases renters are responsible. New laws in 2025 have shifted some responsibility toward landlords.
No, buyers typically don’t pay fees directly—the seller does. However, first-time buyers may benefit from incentives or rebates.
Casa Blanca Real Estate is known for transparency, fairness, and maximizing client value. Its fee structures are competitive, and its client-first approach ensures that fees translate into real results.
