03/24/2026
Happy Tuesday everyone! We want you to understand how realtors get paid. In real estate, there are typically two sides to a deal: the landlord’s agent (listing agent) and the tenant or buyer’s agent (that’s the person you called to help you).
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: the commission is usually already built into the deal by the landlord and is intended to be shared between both sides. That means if you’re working with a tenant rep, you’re not “saving money” by going directly to the number on the sign. You’re just removing your own representation from the transaction.
And yes, that also means the agent you asked to help you doesn’t get paid, even after spending time, making calls, setting up tours, and using their market knowledge on your behalf.
If you’ve chosen someone to help you find a space, loop them in on everything. It costs you nothing in most cases, protects your interests, and ensures the person working for you is actually able to do their job.
Commercial real estate is a team process, but it only works when everyone understands how it’s supposed to function.