Real Estate Commission Split Calculator
Break a home-sale commission into listing and buyer sides, then split the agent’s side between the agent and their brokerage.
How it works
Total = sale price × commission% · Listing side = total × listing-side% · Agent = listing side × agent-split% · Brokerage = listing side − agent
A commission is split twice. First the total divides between the two brokerages — commonly 50/50 between the side that lists the home and the side that brings the buyer. Then each brokerage splits its half with its agent under whatever plan the agent is on, such as 70/30. The agent’s take-home is a fraction of a fraction, which is why the headline commission overstates what any one agent actually earns.
Worked example
On a $450,000 sale a 6% commission is $27,000. Split 50/50, each side gets $13,500. On a 70/30 plan the listing agent keeps 70% of their $13,500 side — $9,450 — and the brokerage keeps $4,050.
Frequently asked questions
Do listing and buyer sides always split 50/50?
It is the common default but not a rule. The listing agreement sets the total and how it is offered to a buyer’s agent; recent industry changes have made these splits more openly negotiable. Adjust the listing-side share to match your deal.
What is an agent split plan?
Brokerages divide each commission with their agents on an agreed ratio — 70/30, 80/20, or a cap-then-100% model. Higher-producing agents typically negotiate a larger share. This calculator applies one split percentage to the agent’s side.
Are franchise or transaction fees included?
No. Many agents also pay a franchise royalty, desk fee or per-transaction fee on top of the brokerage split, which further reduces take-home pay. Subtract those separately.
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Educational estimate, not financial, tax or lending advice. Confirm figures with your lender, agent or a qualified professional.