How Buyer’s Agents Get Paid in Florida (And What New Agents Should Expect)
Thinking About a Career in Real Estate? Here’s How Buyer’s Agents Actually Get Paid
If you're new to real estate in Florida—or thinking about becoming an agent—one of the first things you’re probably wondering is, “How do buyer’s agents actually get paid?”
Let’s break it down in plain English.
What Is a Buyer’s Agent?
A buyer’s agent is a licensed real estate professional who represents the homebuyer in a real estate transaction. Their job is to help clients find the right property, negotiate terms, and navigate the closing process.
At MainStreet Realty, we work with both buyers and sellers—but many of our new agents get started by working with buyers first.
How Do Buyer’s Agents Get Paid in Florida?
The Basics of Real Estate Commission
In most Florida home sales, the seller pays the total commission for both their listing agent and the buyer’s agent. The total commission—typically between 5% to 6%—is split between both agents’ brokerages.
The Payment Breakdown
Let’s say a home sells for $400,000 with a 6% commission.
Total commission: $24,000
Split between listing and buyer agents: $12,000 each
Goes through brokerages: Each agent’s brokerage may take a portion depending on the commission agreement
What you receive as an agent: Depends on your split—could be 60/40, 70/30, or more depending on experience and brokerage
At MainStreet Realty, we offer competitive splits and support tools to help new agents grow quickly and earn more confidently.
Do Buyers Ever Pay the Agent Directly?
In most cases, no—especially for residential sales. The buyer typically does not pay their agent directly. The commission is baked into the sale price and handled at closing by the seller’s proceeds.
However, in special cases (like For Sale By Owner or commercial deals), buyers may need to agree to a compensation agreement up front.
Do Buyer’s Agents Still Get Paid If the Sale Doesn’t Close?
Unfortunately, no. Real estate is a commission-only business. If the deal falls through, you don’t get paid. That’s why it’s important to:
Work with serious buyers
Have proper pre-qualification
Stay organized and communicate consistently
What New Agents Should Expect (From a Pay Perspective)
It Takes Time to Build Momentum
Your first few months will be about learning, prospecting, and building a pipeline. It’s common to go 60–90 days or more before your first paycheck.
Income Can Vary
Your earnings will depend on:
How many buyers you’re working with
Price point of the homes
Your commission split
Whether you’re part of a team or flying solo
At MainStreet Realty, we provide mentorship, tools, leads, and a collaborative environment to help you hit the ground running.
FAQs About How Buyer’s Agents Get Paid in Florida
How much commission do buyer’s agents make?
Typically, buyer’s agents earn 2.5% to 3% of the home’s sale price—before brokerage splits.
Who pays the buyer’s agent in Florida?
The seller, via the listing agreement. Payment is handled during closing.
Is being a buyer’s agent worth it?
Yes—especially for new agents. Working with buyers helps you gain experience, build relationships, and grow your confidence in the field.
Can I earn a salary as a buyer’s agent?
Most agents in Florida work on commission only, but some teams or brokerages offer stipends or bonuses.
FAQs About MainStreet Realty
Does MainStreet Realty hire new agents?
Yes! We welcome both new and experienced agents in Lake Nona, St. Cloud, Kissimmee, Deltona, DeLand, Orange City, and surrounding areas.
What support do you offer for new agents?
We provide:
One-on-one mentorship
Onboarding training
Marketing and lead generation tools
Broker support available when you need it
Where is MainStreet Realty located?
We’re based in Central Florida, serving buyers and sellers across Osceola, Volusia, and Orange counties.
Final Thoughts
If you're just starting out as a buyer’s agent in Florida, understanding how commissions work is a crucial first step. It’s not instant money—but with the right support, tools, and training, it’s a rewarding and flexible career path.
MainStreet Realty is here to help you navigate your first deals with confidence—and build a thriving business for the long term.
Ready to Start Your Real Estate Career?
Join MainStreet Realty today and get the support you need to succeed.
📍 MainStreetRealtyGroup.com
Email: [email protected]
Address: 2 Volusia Drive Debary, FL, 32713
Phone Number: Orlando: 407-789-0925 | Volusia: 386-259-2426 | Lake:352-729-1425
