First let’s talk about the listing agent (agent who represents the seller). For the larger traditional brokerages the commssion is anywhere from 2.5-3.0%. Smaller independents may charge less. There are places like Assist to Sell and Help U Sell that charge anywhere in a range from 1-1.5%.
The selling agent (agent who represents the buyer) is generally paid out from a commission that is known as the coop commission, (coop – cooperating broker) and this is paid out by the seller. In the market conditions we have today the recommended coop commission is 2.5% on up.
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There are plenty of places on line you can find that offer commission rebates. Redfin and others come to mind. Lots of independents also offer rebates as well. The larger traditional brokerages are usually not in the business of offering rebates, but it never hurts to ask.
The amount that you are going to ask for is up to you but it should probably be commensurate with how much work you expect the agent to do for you right?