Navigating the real estate market in Arkansas requires a solid understanding of real estate commissions, both for budgeting and successful negotiations. Recent changes in 2024 have reshaped the landscape, bringing greater transparency and clarity to these crucial fees. This guide from Redfin aims to equip buyers and sellers, new or seasoned, with the knowledge needed to navigate Arkansas’s real estate commissions effectively and thrive in today’s market.
Current state of the Arkansas housing market
Before delving into the intricacies of real estate commissions in Arkansas, let’s first examine the state of the housing market.
- Median Home Sale Price: $258,100
- Housing Supply: 15,005 (+25.6% YoY)
- Homes Sold Above List Price: 16.5% (-3.9 pts YoY)
Understanding real estate commissions in Arkansas
What are real estate commissions, and who pays them?
Real estate commissions are the fees paid to agents for their services in facilitating a real estate transaction, usually at the closing. In the past, sellers covered commissions for both their and the buyer’s agents. However, since August 17, 2024, buyers must agree to their agent’s fee in writing before embarking on home tours. While buyers can still ask sellers to cover their agent’s fee during the offer process, this change introduces variability in what sellers might pay for the buyer’s agent, making the fee entirely negotiable.
Average real estate commission rates in Arkansas
Real estate commission rates in Arkansas are variable, influenced by various factors like property location, market conditions, and the services provided by the agent. Despite common expectations, these rates are negotiable, allowing buyers and sellers to tailor the commission structure to their specific needs. Below is a snapshot of example commission rates at different levels based on median home prices in major Arkansas cities.
- Little Rock
- $245,000
- $3,675 (1.5%)
- $7,350 (3%)
- $12,250 (5%)
- Fayetteville
- $370,000
- $5,550 (1.5%)
- $11,100 (3%)
- $18,500 (5%)
- Fort Smith
- $188,500
- $2,828 (1.5%)
- $5,670 (3%)
- $9,425 (5%)
Negotiating real estate commissions in Arkansas
Yes, you can negotiate real estate commissions in Arkansas. With no federal laws dictating commission rates, agents are often open to negotiations based on transaction specifics, required services, and the relationship dynamics. Sellers can potentially negotiate lower rates for highly desirable properties or opt for a dual agency representation to cut costs further. Tips for a successful negotiation include comparing multiple agents, proposing performance-based incentives, and leveraging property desirability to secure reduced commissions.
Arkansas real estate commission FAQs
- Changes in real estate commissions: Notable updates have revamped the handling and advertising of real estate commissions, emphasizing explicit agreements before home tours and modifying compensation displays on MLS listings.
- Impact on buyers: Buyers now sign agreements specifying commission rates before touring homes, yet can still request seller coverage during the offer process.
- Impact on sellers: Sellers continue to negotiate compensation for the buyer’s agent with their listing agent, addressing any related requests during the offer process.
- Finding a real estate agent: Ready to buy or sell? Redfin stands ready to assist!
- Avoiding fees: While selling a home without an agent can save on commission fees, it entails more effort and responsibility from the seller in marketing, showings, and paperwork.
Stay informed, be prepared, and make the most of the changing real estate commission landscape in Arkansas to achieve your buying and selling goals effectively and efficiently.
