Sun, 03 May 2026 16:04:04 +0000

From Commissions to Cash Flow: The Full Truth About How Much Real Estate Agents Earn When entering the world of real estate, one of the most commonly discussed topics is how much agents earn—and with good reason. For many aspirants, the allure of high commissions is the primary motivator. But the reality is far more nuanced than headlines suggest. Understanding how real estate agents really make money—from commissions to cash flow—can dramatically shift your perception of the industry’s profitability. Let’s cut through the myths and uncover the full truth behind agent earnings. ### The Commissions Challenge: Not All Commissions Are Created Equal Real estate agents traditionally earn via commissions, typically receiving a percentage of the sale price—usually between 5% and 6%, split between the listing agent and the listing broker’s affiliate agent. But this headline rate rarely reflects what agents actually pocket.