Real Estate Commission Calculator — Philadelphia, PA

Median home price in Philadelphia: $280,000 · Typical commission: 5% · Updated 2025

Total Commission

$14,000

Listing Agent Gets

$4,900

Buyer's Agent Gets

$4,900

Seller's Net

$266,000

Real Estate Commission Rates in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The typical total real estate commission in Philadelphia is 5% of the sale price, based on current market data for Pennsylvania. On the median Philadelphia home price of $280,000, that works out to $14,000 in total agent fees.

Following the 2024 NAR settlement, buyer's agent compensation is now negotiated separately in Pennsylvania. Most transactions still split the commission 50/50 between listing and buyer agents, but this is no longer required. Sellers in Philadelphia have more flexibility than ever to offer lower buyer concessions.

How Commission Splits Work in Philadelphia

  • Listing agent typically receives $7,000 (2.5% of sale price)
  • Buyer's agent typically receives $7,000 (if seller offers full split)
  • Agent keeps ~70% after broker split: ~$4,900 per side
  • Seller nets approximately $266,000 on a $280,000 sale

Tips for Negotiating Commission in Philadelphia

  1. List at a higher price point — agents on $600,000+ homes often accept 2–2.5% listing side
  2. Compare multiple agents — commission rates in Pennsylvania vary by 0.5–1% between agents
  3. Use a flat-fee MLS service — pay $300–$500 for MLS listing, offer buyer agent 2.5%
  4. Ask about a reduced rate on a simultaneous buy/sell — agents may discount if you're both buying and selling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average real estate commission in Philadelphia, PA?

The average total commission in Philadelphia is approximately 5%, slightly at or above the national average of 5.0–5.4% following the NAR settlement.

How much does a real estate agent make on a home sale in Philadelphia?

On the median Philadelphia home price of $280,000, a listing agent earns roughly $7,000 before broker split. After a typical 70/30 agent-broker split, the agent takes home approximately $4,900.

Do sellers have to pay the buyer's agent in Philadelphia?

No. Since August 2024, sellers in Pennsylvania are no longer required to offer buyer agent compensation through the MLS. Many still do to attract buyers, but it's now fully negotiable.