Realtors usually get paid only after a sale closes, not on a regular schedule like a salary. Here’s how it typically works:
- Commission-based – Most real estate agents earn a percentage of the property’s sale price (often 2–3% per agent).
- Payment timing – The commission is paid at closing, when the property officially changes ownership and the funds are disbursed.
- Split with brokerage – Agents often share part of the commission with their brokerage, so the final payout is after that split.
- Frequency – This means payment can be irregular. Some agents may close multiple deals in a month, while others might go months without a check, especially early in their careers.
💡 Tip: Because income is inconsistent, many agents keep a financial buffer to cover months without closings.
Here’s a simple table showing how often realtors typically get paid, comparing first-year agents vs experienced agents:
| Agent Level | Payment Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First-Year Realtor | Sporadic (sometimes 0–2 checks/month) | New agents take time to close deals; income can be unpredictable. |
| Experienced Realtor | 1–4 checks/month | Established agents close deals more consistently; some may have multiple closings in a month. |
| Top-Producing Realtor | Weekly to bi-weekly (if deals overlap) | High-volume agents often have overlapping deals, creating near-regular income. |
Key takeaway: Realtors are paid per deal, not on a set schedule, so your income depends entirely on when deals close.
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