There's a question almost every smart home buyer or seller asks—“If agents get paid by commission, how can I be sure they’re really working in my best interest?” At Stewart & Jane Real Estate, we love that question. It shows that you’re thoughtful, financially savvy, and protective of your investment. And the truth? That question has a simple, honest answer—one we’ll walk you through right here.

Understanding How Real Estate Commissions Work

Real estate agents are typically paid through a commission—usually around 5–6% of the home’s sale price—split between the buyer's agent and the seller's agent. This only gets paid after the deal closes, which means agents work hard for weeks or even months before earning anything.

But here's the nuance most people don't realize: a few extra thousand dollars on the sale doesn’t significantly change the agent’s take-home pay, but it does impact your trust, your review, and your referrals. That’s what matters most to agents who build their business on reputation—not quick wins.

The Real Incentive: Lifetime Client Value Over One-Time Profit

Let’s break it down. If you’re selling your home for $300,000, a 3% commission for your agent equals $9,000. But if your agent pushes for a higher sale of $310,000, their commission increases to just $9,300. That’s a $300 difference for them—yet it could mean $10,000 more for you.

So the real payoff for agents like ours isn’t that $300 bump. It’s the 5-star review you’ll leave, the neighbor you’ll refer, and the trust that turns into repeat business down the road.

Why Trust Matters More Than Transaction

At Stewart & Jane, our entire business is built on transparency and relationship-based trust. We know that buying or selling a home is one of the most emotional and financially significant moments of your life. That's why we’ve structured our team and services to reflect your priorities—not our paychecks.

What Makes Our Model Different

Here’s what sets us apart in a commission-based world:

• Client Portal Transparency
  You’ll never be in the dark. See what’s happening, what’s next, and what to expect at every step.

• In-House Transaction Coordination
  Our dedicated staff member ensures your contract, deadlines, and paperwork are perfectly aligned—no last-minute chaos.

• No Pressure, Just Clarity
  Our agents are here to educate and guide, not to “close the deal fast.” If the right house takes time—we wait. If you need to walk away—we support that too.

Here is a link to our Google My Business page so that you can read some of the reviews from our past and current clients!

The Real Estate Agent You Can Actually Trust

We get it—there’s skepticism around commission. But that’s exactly why we lean into communication, education, and service. You deserve a partner in this process, not a salesperson. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, invest, or build, our team is here to make sure it’s done right, fair, and with your goals first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a way to pay agents differently?
There are flat-fee and salaried models, but commission is still the most common and performance-driven structure in residential real estate.

How do I know I’m not overpaying?
At Stewart & Jane, we pull comparable market data, explain pricing strategy transparently, and support your decision—not override it.

Can agents really be unbiased if their income depends on the deal closing?
Yes, and we prove it every day. We’d rather not close a deal than force one that doesn’t feel right for you.

How do I track the process and protect myself?
Our client portal allows 24/7 access to documents, updates, and communication, so you're always in control.

What happens if I change my mind mid-process?
We’ll pause, adjust, or help you walk away—whatever supports your long-term interest.

Does your team ever turn down listings or buyers?
Yes. If it’s not the right fit, or if expectations aren’t aligned with the market, we’ll be honest and guide you elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Commission doesn’t have to be a dirty word. In the right hands, it’s simply a way to reward hard work, long hours, and meaningful service. And at Stewart & Jane Real Estate, we never forget that our real reward is your trust—not our commission.

When you’re ready to buy or sell, we’re ready to stand by you. Let’s get started—on your terms.