When navigating Vermont’s real estate market, it’s essential to have a clear grasp of how real estate commissions work. In 2024, new nationwide regulations have brought changes that increase transparency, making it easier for buyers and sellers to understand and manage these fees. These adjustments aim to simplify the process, enabling more informed decisions.
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a property in Vermont, this Redfin guide will break down what you need to know about real estate commissions and help you stay ahead in the current market.
Current state of the Vermont housing market
Before diving into commission details, it’s worth getting a snapshot of the housing market in Vermont:
| Median Home Sale Price | $411,500 |
| Housing Supply | 3,399 (+29.5% YoY) |
| Homes Sold Above List Price | 36.3% (-11.4 pts YoY) |
Understanding real estate commissions in Vermont
What are real estate commissions?
Real estate commissions are fees paid to real estate agents for helping facilitate home sales or purchases. Typically calculated as a percentage of the property’s sale price, these fees are settled at the closing of the deal.
Who pays the commission?
Traditionally, the seller paid both their agent’s commission and the buyer’s agent fees from the sale proceeds. However, starting on August 17, 2024, buyers in Vermont must sign an agreement that clearly outlines their agent’s fee before they begin touring homes.
While it remains possible for buyers to ask sellers to cover their agent’s commission as part of an offer, this new policy means the amount a seller might pay is more flexible and is entirely negotiable.
Average real estate commission rates in Vermont
In Vermont, commission rates are not set in stone. They depend on various factors like the property’s location, current market conditions, and the range of services an agent provides. Commissions are fully negotiable, which allows both buyers and sellers to tailor agreements to their specific circumstances.
Here’s a breakdown of typical commission rates based on median home prices in Vermont’s largest cities:
| City | Median Home Sale Price | 1.5% Real Estate Commission | 3% Real Estate Commission | 5% Real Estate Commission |
| Burlington | $548,000 | $8,220 | $16,440 | $27,400 |
| South Burlington | $471,000 | $7,065 | $14,130 | $23,550 |
| Rutland | $272,000 | $4,080 | $8,160 | $13,600 |
At Redfin, we strive to offer our customers the best value possible. Sellers can benefit from listing fees as low as 1%*. For buyers, fees differ by location, but are competitive to help ensure your offer stands out.
Can you negotiate real estate commissions in Vermont?
Yes! Real estate commissions are entirely negotiable in Vermont. Since there are no fixed commission rates by law, buyers and sellers have the freedom to negotiate with their agents based on the scope of the services offered and other factors like property appeal and the agent’s expertise.
When discussing commissions, consider the agent’s level of service, their marketing strategies, and knowledge of the local market. For properties expected to sell quickly or in high-demand areas, sellers might have more leverage to negotiate lower rates.
Tips for a successful negotiation
- Shop around: Speak to several agents and compare their commission rates and services.
- Incentive-based deals: Negotiate bonuses tied to quicker sales or better sale prices.
- Use property appeal: If your home is in a hot market or highly desirable, you may have more bargaining power to reduce commissions.
Vermont real estate commission FAQs
What are the changes to real estate commission? Two significant changes have been introduced: buyers now need to sign off on their agent’s fee before home tours, and in some markets, the buyer’s agent’s compensation is no longer displayed on MLS listings. Learn more about the real estate commission changes here.
How do the changes impact buyers in Vermont? Buyers must agree in writing to their agent’s commission before touring homes. However, they can still request that the seller cover this cost when submitting an offer.
How do the changes impact sellers in Vermont? Sellers will continue to discuss with their listing agent what commission, if any, to offer the buyer’s agent. They can review and negotiate these terms based on the specifics of the offer.
How do you find a real estate agent in Vermont? If you’re ready to buy or sell in Vermont, Redfin’s local agents are here to assist. Contact us to get started today.
How can you avoid fees? Choosing to sell your home without an agent—through a for sale by owner (FSBO) approach—can save on commission fees. However, FSBO sellers take on full responsibility for marketing, showing the property, and handling all necessary paperwork.
*Listing fee subject to change, minimums apply. Any buyer’s agent fee the seller chooses to cover not included. Listing fee increased by 1% of sale price if buyer is unrepresented. Sell for a 1% listing fee only if you also buy with Redfin within 365 days of closing on your Redfin listing. We will charge a 1.5% listing fee, then send you a check for the 0.5% difference after you buy your next home with us. Learn more here.
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