Frequently asked
Everything buyers and sellers ask Craig about this.
Is real estate commission negotiable in BC?
Yes. BC's Real Estate Services Rules require commission to be disclosed and agreed in writing on the listing agreement before any representation begins. There is no regulated rate — brokerages set their own.
Who pays the buyer's agent?
In a standard MLS transaction, the seller pays both sides of the commission, and the co-operating commission offered to the buyer's agent is published on MLS at listing. Some buyer-agency agreements let the buyer pay their agent directly if a seller declines to offer co-op.
Does commission include GST?
Commission itself does not include GST. 5% GST is added on top and is fully payable by the seller on closing. There is no rebate for private-residence sales.
What is the typical commission split between listing and buyer's agents?
On a 7%/3% Coquitlam listing, the common split is 4% / 1.85% to the listing agent (covers the full marketing pipeline) and 3% / 1.15% to the buyer's agent (covers showings, comps, negotiation, conveyancing). Splits are always negotiable and disclosed in writing before you sign.
Do discount brokerages really save money?
Sometimes, yes — but the math depends on whether the lower fee is offset by a weaker marketing package, slower response time, or fewer showings. On a $1.2M home, 1% in fee savings equals $12,000. The question is whether the home sells for $12,001 more with full service.
What is the average Coquitlam commission in 2026?
Using a 7% / 3% structure: on a detached home in the $1.6M–$2.4M range, total commission (both sides, including GST) lands between $54,000 and $80,000. Condos in the $600K–$900K range run $24,000–$33,000 total including GST. Every listing has the opportunity to choose its tier — luxury listings sit at the top of the range.
Can I sell my home without a realtor in BC?
Yes — this is called FSBO (For Sale By Owner). You still need a BC lawyer for conveyancing, you won't have direct MLS access (you'd use a mere-posting service), and you negotiate directly with buyers and their agents. For-sale-by-owner is relatively rare in competitive markets.
Is commission tax-deductible when I sell?
Commission is not deductible against personal income, but it reduces the capital gain on a non-principal-residence sale. On your primary residence, the sale is usually tax-exempt, so deductibility is moot.
Does the buyer pay commission when using a buyer's agent?
In the standard MLS transaction, no — the seller pays the co-op commission offered at listing. On off-market or builder-direct purchases, buyer-paid commission is more common and is spelled out in the Buyer's Agency Agreement.
What happens if the sale falls through?
Commission is only earned and paid when the deal completes on closing day. If subjects are not removed and the deal collapses, no commission is owed under the standard BC listing agreement.