When looking to work with a realtor we recommend: Always using a schedule A to clearly stipulate what the commission rates are for various scenarios that may play out. For example, specify what commission rates apply to exclusive vs. MLS listings. OR, Multiple Representation vs. Paying a cooperating brokerage. Do not forget that commission rates should vary for the various services offered. For example, are you getting floor plans, photography, videos, social media advertising, staging, cleaning, etc.? Attach the schedule A to each listing agreement, within docusigned / authentisign altogether, executed at the same time. Always avoid a % where your listing agent has control to split the commission at their sole discretion. Always specify what each representing realtor gets paid. Do not write terms in generalities. Remember without the schedule A, the standard wording of a listing agreement is very general, and written in favour of the listing brokerage. The schedule A is for your protection to define your best interests upfront. When your interviewing agents for your business, mention schedule A right away. The housing market prices are inflated by realtor commissions. So do not be afraid to stipulate what you think a realtor's services are worth to you. There is enough data, information, and plenty of realtors to interview to get an idea of price points and strategy. The schedule A is your opportunity to summarize all of this in one place. We also strongly encourage consumers to create a spreadsheet, and calculate what the commissions could be before you negotiate rates. For example: Sold price: $1,000,000.00 Cooperating Brokerage 2.5% Listing Brokerage 1% = 3.5% + HST = $39,550.00 total realtor commissions Inc. HST = $960,450.00 NET All realtors want listings. It’s a way to also help their seller buy a property, and pick up new business on the same street. In our experience, every realtor says the same thing, and offers the same services. So pick the right ‘personality’ for the situation at hand. Do not be afraid to change realtors according to particular circumstances. Oh, and do not forget to have the deposit from the buyer go to your lawyers firm in trust. We have found these suggestions to be good healthy consumer practice, and we hope these tips are helpful in your search for a realtor. You only get one opportunity on each real estate transaction, and you want to ensure you're not only getting top market value, but also maximum NET value. After all it was you who took the risk to buy/sell the place!