For both of our last two home sales, both within the last 4 years and in different states, we asked for 5% and our agents agreed without any quibbling. They were confident buying agents would be okay with 2.5, and they were right. Some states have certain rules about how this works, I think.

I’m pretty sure I could have played hardball and gotten 4.5% or maybe even 4, but I didn’t have the energy or desire. Either way, I’m confident that an agent adds value (and takes a big load off your plate) so I don’t mind paying for that service. Or maybe I’m just rationalizing because I’m too lazy to FSBO a house.