Key takeaways
- Sellers can refuse to pay a buyer’s agent, and commissions remain fully negotiable even after the 2024 NAR settlement
- MLS listings can no longer display buyer agent commission offers, which means any compensation must now be negotiated off the MLS between the parties involved
- Not offering a buy-side commission may reduce a seller’s costs, but it can also limit buyer interest, especially among buyers who prefer not to pay their agent out of pocket
- Sellers can still attract buyers by offering concessions or leaving compensation open-ended, so buyers can propose how to structure their agent’s fee within the offer
Buying a home is already complex, and the question “can a seller refuse to pay a buyer’s agent?” has become even more common as real estate commission rules continue to evolve. Since the 2024 NAR settlement reshaped how buyers and their agents negotiate fees, sellers in 2025 and 2026 are taking a closer look at whether offering a buy-side commission is still necessary, or even expected, in their local market.
Early market data shows a clear shift. According to Redfin’s internal analysis, the share of sellers offering a buyer agent commission has declined compared with early 2024; however, most listings still include some level of compensation to stay competitive. As the market adjusts, sellers have more flexibility, but they also face new decisions about how these changes could affect their sales.
If you are preparing to list your home in 2025 or 2026, here is what you need to know about your options, how the rules are changing, and how refusing to pay a buyer’s agent may influence buyer interest, offer activity, and your final sale price.
Who pays the real estate agent?
Many sellers have historically paid both the buyer and seller’s agent fees from the proceeds of the sale. But as of August 17, 2024, buyers will now agree to their agent’s fee in writing before touring. Buyers can still ask the seller to cover…