Are Realtors Paid Too Much?
One common question about real estate transactions is: Why do realtors get paid so much for what seems like so little work? It’s a fair question, and even as a seasoned realtor, I can admit it’s something I struggled with when I first entered the industry. Now, with over a decade of experience, I see things from a very different perspective—and I’d like to offer my perspective.
When you look at the hours directly involved in helping someone buy or sell a home, it might range from 7 to 40 hours, depending on the complexity of the transaction. But those hours alone don’t represent the full value of what you’re paying for.
What many people don’t realize is that the commission also reflects the years of expertise, education, and practice that your agent brings to the table. Behind every successful transaction is a wealth of knowledge—acquired through courses, training, and hard-earned wisdom—gained over years of navigating the real estate industry. It’s this expertise that ensures the process is as smooth and efficient as possible, saving you time, stress, and potential missteps.
Choosing the Right Realtor: What to Ask
If you’re struggling to reconcile the cost of a realtor’s commission, or if you’re interviewing agents, here are a couple of key questions to help you better understand the value they bring:
How long have you been in the industry? Experience often equates to a broader understanding of the market, negotiation skills, and creative solutions to challenges.
What systems do you have in place to leverage your expertise? A seasoned agent should have thoughtful processes to apply their learned wisdom and ensure nothing gets missed, whether it’s during the negotiation, paperwork, or marketing stages.
Why This Matters
When you hire a realtor, you’re not just paying for their time today—you’re paying for the years they’ve invested in becoming an expert who can guide you confidently through one of the most significant financial transactions of your life.
At Prisma, we believe in transparency and value, which is why we encourage these conversations. Whether you're buying or selling, we’re here to bring not just hours of work, but years of knowledge and care to help you make informed, empowered decisions.
